Tikkun

Tikkun is a Hebrew word meaning repair, rectification, or setting things in order. In Jewish religious and philosophical usage, the term functions as a general concept of making things right, in personal conduct, communal life, or cosmic order.

In modern and popular usage, the phrase tikkun olam, literally “repair of the world,” has become a prominent expression for social justice—acts of charity, equality, and efforts to improve society. The idea has roots in rabbinic ethical teachings and has been developed and popularized in contemporary Jewish thought as a framework for addressing social issues and human rights, though the exact scope and emphasis vary among movements.

In Kabbalah and Hasidic philosophy, tikkun refers to a cosmic process of rectification. It is tied to the belief that creation involved a rupture or deficiency in the divine emanations, or vessels, and that human action—especially the performance of mitzvot and spiritual practices—helps repair this broken order. Texts associated with this sense include the Tikkunei Zohar and related kabbalistic works, which discuss specific spiritual rectifications (tikkunim) to balance and restore divine aspects.

Historically, tikkun also appears in ritual and liturgical contexts. On Shavuot, many communities observe a Tikkun Leil Shavuot, an all-night study and prayer vigil intended to spiritually prepare for the giving of the Torah. The practice draws on medieval kabbalistic traditions and various later compilations that guide nocturnal study and contemplation.

Overall, tikkun encompasses both a broad ethical aim of repairing the world and specialized mystical concepts of repairing divine order, as well as concrete ritual practices.