Finding Everyday Meaning with Jewish Summer Blessings
May 29, 2025 | Jewish Traditions and Values
Summer invites us to step outside into nature, into community, into moments that surprise and delight. Maybe you’re standing in awe at the ocean, heading out on a road trip, or simply catching your breath under a shady tree. No matter your choice, Judaism offers a beautiful way to mark those moments with blessings.
Jewish blessings (brachot) are short, sacred pauses that allow us to notice, reflect, and express gratitude. This summer, try incorporating some of these timeless words into your everyday experiences. You don’t need a prayer book or a minyan, just a moment of presence.
When You See Something Beautiful or Majestic
Blessing:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יהוה אֱלהֵינוּ מֶלֶך הָעולָם שֶׁכָּכָה לּוֹ בָּעוֹלָמוֹ
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, she’kacha lo b’olamo.
Blessed are You, our God, Sovereign of the universe, who has such beauty in the world.
Use this blessing when you see a stunning sunset, a majestic mountain, a field of wildflowers—or even a person whose beauty takes your breath away. It’s a simple way to acknowledge wonder.
When You Visit the Ocean or Natural Wonders
Blessing:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יהוה אֱלהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, עוֹשֶׂה מַעֲשֵׂה בְרֵאשִׁית
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, oseh ma’aseh bereishit.
Blessed are You, our God, Sovereign of the universe, who makes the works of Creation.
Standing at the edge of the sea or gazing across the Grand Canyon, this blessing connects you to the ancient rhythm of Creation. It’s a favorite for summer travel to awe-inspiring places.
When You See a Rainbow
Blessing:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יהוה אֱלהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם זוֹכֵר הַבְּרִית וְנֶאֱמָן בִּבְרִיתוֹ וְקַיָם בְּמַאֲמָרוֹ
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, zocher habrit v’ne’eman bivrito v’kayam b’ma’amaro.
Blessed are You, our God, Sovereign of the universe, who remembers the covenant, is faithful to His covenant, and fulfills His word.
A rainbow isn’t just a meteorological phenomenon—it’s also a spiritual sign of hope, renewal, and God’s promise after the flood in the story of Noah.
When You Hear Thunder or See Lightning
Thunder:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יהוה אֱלהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, שֶׁכֹּחוֹ וּגְבוּרָתוֹ מָלֵא עוֹלָם
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, shekocho u’gevurato malei olam.
Blessed are You, ou God, Sovereign of the Universe, whose strength and power fill the world.
Lightning or Earthquakes:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יהוה אֱלהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, עוֹשֶׂה מַעֲשֵׂה בְרֵאשִׁית
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, oseh ma’aseh bereishit.
Blessed are You, our God, Sovereign of the Universe, who makes the works of Creation.
These powerful natural events can be startling and sacred. Blessings help us meet them with reverence, not just surprise.
Tefilat Haderech – The Traveler’s Prayer
Whether you’re heading to camp drop-off, a national park, or across the country, Tefilat Haderech (The Traveler’s Prayer) is a traditional way to ask for protection and peace on your journey. Here’s a shortened version you can say:
“May it be Your will, our God and God of our ancestors, that You guide us in peace, support our footsteps in peace, and make us reach our destination in life, joy, and peace.”
Print it out, put it in your glove compartment, or speak it aloud before a family trip. It’s a beautiful way to begin the journey with intention.
For the full version in English, Hebrew and transliteration, visit MyJewishLearning.
When You Experience a First or a Special Moment
Blessing:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יהוה אֱלהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, שֶׁהֶחֱיָנוּ וְקִיְּמָנוּ וְהִגִּיעָנוּ לַזְּמַן הַזֶּה
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, shehechiyanu, v’kiy’manu, v’higiyanu laz’man hazeh.
Blessed are You, our God, Sovereign of the universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and brought us to this moment.
This beloved blessing is for firsts: the first watermelon of the season, the first dive into the lake, a first sleepaway camp, or gathering with loved ones after a long time apart. It’s a way to celebrate being present for something new and good.
Creating Your Own Summer Blessing Practice
Blessings aren’t only about formal words, they’re about attention. Try creating a “summer blessing journal,” or choose a few favorite moments to pause and whisper thanks. Snap a photo, teach your kids a simple phrase, or invent your own sacred summer rituals.
Judaism reminds us that spirituality isn’t just found in synagogues, it’s also in campgrounds, hiking trails, backyards, and beach days. Wherever you go this summer, may your days be full of beauty, wonder, safe travels, and blessings.
Share your summer moments with us – info@thejewishnetwork.org