Before eating bread, it’s traditional in Judaism to wash the hands in a special ritual called Netilat Yadayim, meaning “the lifting of the hands.”

This beautiful practice is so much more than a physical act of cleanliness — it’s a quiet moment of spiritual preparation. Through it, we remind ourselves that even something as simple as sharing a meal can become sacred when we approach it with intention.

When we wash our hands before reciting Hamotzi (the blessing over bread), we’re pausing to acknowledge that all nourishment — both physical and spiritual — comes from G-d.

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The Steps of Netilat Yadayim

1. Fill a cup (traditionally a two-handled washing cup) with water.
2. Pour water three times on the right hand and three times on the left hand (some follow the opposite order — both are valid customs).
3. Lift your hands slightly as you say the blessing below.
4. Remain silent until after you’ve recited Hamotzi and taken your first bite of bread.

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The Blessing

Hebrew:
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם,
אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו
וְצִוָּנוּ עַל נְטִילַת יָדַיִם

Transliteration:
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech Ha’olam,
Asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu al netilat yadayim.

Translation:
Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
who has sanctified us with His commandments
and commanded us concerning the washing of the hands.

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Reflection

The ritual of hand washing reminds us that holiness isn’t limited to grand or public moments — it’s woven into the fabric of daily life.
By taking a moment to wash with mindfulness, we bring intention and gratitude to the act of eating, turning the ordinary into something sacred.

It’s a gentle reminder that everything — even nourishment — can be a form of connection with the Divine.

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Learn More

• My Jewish Learning – Washing Hands Before a Meal
• Chabad.org – Netilat Yadayim: Ritual Hand Washing
•  Watch: How to Perform Netilat Yadayim (YouTube)

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