This instructional post provides the Hebrew audio and the Hebrew, English and transliterated text of the blessing over the children according to the Reform tradition, which makes a slight modification to the traditional Hebrew text of the blessing over the daughter. According to Reform custom, the word « like » is added before each of the Matriarch’s names, as is customary in the blessing over a son, instead of just before Sarah. This small change sends the message that each of the Matriarchs is unique. This tradition was shared by ReformJudaism.org, the official website of the Reform movement, which seeks to answer questions and demonstrate the traditions and innovations of Reform Jewish life.
Shabbat and Holiday Blessings: Blessing over Children
Place your hands on the head of the child and recite:
Y’simeich Elohim k’Sarah, k’Rivkah, k’Rachel, ooch’Leah.
Y’simcha Elohim k’Efrayim v’che-Menasheh.
May God make you like Ephraim and Menasheh.
Y’varechecha Adonai V’yish’m’recha.
Ya’er Adonai panav eilecha vichuneka.
Yisa Adonai panav eilecha v’yasem l’cha shalom.
May the light of God shine upon you, and may God be gracious to you.
May the presence of God be with you and give you peace.