Saturday, May 23, 2009

Tefilat HaDerech in Jewish jewelry

The Traveler's Prayer, known in Hebrew as Tefilat HaDerech, is a traditional Jewish prayer recited at the onset of a trip, long journey or a flight.

In this special prayer the traveler asks for divine protecting and safeguard. The traveler asks God to keep them safe from harm and dangers.
Interestingly, Tefilat HaDerech is written in plural: we ask God to keep "us" safe rather than "me". According to sacred sources, a traveler is often alone, far away from their friends and family, and so - exposed to dangers. The traveler says this prayer in plural as to join himself or herself with a large number of people.

Tefilat HaDerech unisex ring by Israeli studio, Golan Jewelry.

Many Jewish people who travel around the world keep a copy of the prayer within reach. Jewelry accessories with Tefilat HaDerech inscribed on them allow the wearer to carry the sacred words wherever they go. These pieces might also include other protective amulets as the Star of David or Hamsa hand. Tefilat HaDerech pendant or ring is often given as a gift to soldiers, businessmen and businesswomen and constant travelers. The pendant shown below is inscribed in silver using an innovative technology that allows high resolution. Both pendant and ring include the entire text of Tefilat HeDerech!

Tefilat HaDerech Onyx pendant














Tefilat HaDerech recited by IDF soldiers:




The translation of Tefilat HaDerech from Hebrew (Wikipedia):

"May it be Your will, LORD our God and the God of our ancestors, that You lead us toward peace, guide our footsteps toward peace, and make us reach our desired destination for life, gladness, and peace. May You rescue us from the hand of every foe, ambush along the way, and from all manner of punishments that assemble to come to earth. May You send blessing in our handiwork, and grant us grace, kindness, and mercy in Your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us. May You hear the sound of our humble request because You are God Who hears prayer requests. Blessed are You, Adonai, Who hears prayer".

Jewish gifts blog wishes you many safe journeys, take care!

1 comment:

  1. Very interesting blog. Alot of blogs I see these days don't really provide anything that I'm interested in, but I'm most definately interested in this one. Just thought that I would post and let you know.
    Titanium Pendants UK

    ReplyDelete