Birkat

Birkat is the Hebrew term for a blessing in Judaism. The word derives from the root B-R-K, meaning to bless or to knead together, and in rabbinic Hebrew the noun form berakhah (plural berakhot) refers to a formula that acknowledges God and sanctifies a person, action, or occasion. In compound names such as Birkat HaMazon (Grace after meals) or Birkat HaKohanim (the Priestly Blessing), Birkat denotes a specific, named blessing linked to a particular practice or event.

In Jewish practice, blessings are recited before and after actions that relate to God or sacred obligations. Most blessings follow a typical formula that begins with an opening blessing to God and culminates with a reference to the act itself. The practice is rooted in talmudic and rabbinic law and is codified in halakhic literature. Recitation can serve to mark gratitude, sanctify ordinary acts, or acknowledge the presence of the divine in daily life. Variations exist among communities and traditions, and not all blessings are required in every circumstance.

Major examples include Birkat HaMazon, or Grace after meals, which is recited after eating bread in a formal sequence; Birkat HaTorah, a blessing traditionally recited after completing a unit of Torah study (its use varies by community); Birkat Kohanim, the Priestly Blessing performed by Kohanim on certain festival and Sabbath occasions; and Birkat Hagomel, a blessing after surviving danger. Beyond these, many other berakhot cover acts such as lighting Shabbat candles, washing hands, or hearing good news.

Overall, Birkat structures play a central role in Jewish ritual life, encouraging mindfulness of divine sovereignty and gratitude in everyday activities.