hitbodedut
Hitbodedut is a Jewish meditative practice of secluded, spontaneous prayer—talking to God in one's own words rather than reciting liturgy.
Associated especially with Hasidic Judaism and the teachings of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, it typically involves finding a quiet place, often outdoors, to speak aloud in personal conversation with the divine: He practices hitbodedut in the woods each morning.
The Hebrew root relates to being alone or isolated.
- KabbalahJewish esoteric tradition
- meditationFocused attention practice
- prayerAddress to deity
- outpouringCopious, spontaneous release
- Baal Shem TovHasidic Judaism's founder
introspection · self-awareness · inner dialogue · solitude · mindfulness · gratitude · field · midnight · devotion · contemplation · spiritual retreat · divine presence · talking · self-expression · unscripted · personal growth · inner peace · wilderness
- Breslov Hasidismdisciples, followers, simcha, simple faith
- Hasidic Judaismrebbe, tish, Monroe, Williamsburg, joy
- HasidismBaal Shem Tov, rebbe, Chabad, Tanya, tish
hitbodedutcommunal prayer
Shared religious supplication
minyan · synagogue service · public worship · church service · group meditation