Listed below are the text of T'fillat Ha-Derech (the Traveler's Prayer) and a Talmudic discussion relating to the prayer.Traditionally, this prayer is recited upon embarking on a journey and repeated every day of the journey until one safely returns home. Please read these texts and take time to consider the questions below:


T'fillat Ha-Derech (Traveler's Prayer)

May it be Your will, Lord our God and God of our ancestors, to
guide us in peace, to sustain us in peace, to lead us to our
desired destination in health and joy and peace, and to bring us
home in peace. Save us from every enemy and disaster on the
way, and from all calamities that threaten the world. Bless the
work of our hands. May we find grace, love and compassion in
Your sight and in the sight of all who see us. Hear our
supplication, for You listen to prayer and supplication.
Praised are You, Lord who hears prayer.

Talmud Bavli - Brachot 30a

Abaye said: A man should always associate himself with the
congregation [and it is advisable that he should not pray on his
behalf alone]. How should he say [the prayer]:"May it be Your
will, Lord our God, to guide us in peace, etc.‚" When should he
say this prayer? R. Jacob said in the name of R. Hisda: At the
moment he starts on his journey.


Questions to Think About:

• Although T'fillat Ha-Derech is a fairly short prayer, it contains many requests. What are some of the requests made in the prayer? Upon whose behalf are these requests made?
• Take a moment to reread T'fillat Ha-Derech replacing "us" with "me" and "our" with "my". How does this change the tone and/or meaning of the prayer?
• Why do you think Abaye notes that people should always be part of a group?
• In the context of taking a journey, how might being part of a group be an asset?
• In thinking about revitalizing some aspect of a congregation why might it be worthwhile to involve a group
• T'fillat Ha-Derech asks that God help travelers successfully complete their journey. If you were to think of a hope or wish for how you could revitalize an aspect of your congregation what might that wish be?

Some final thoughts:

Although you engaged in this text study as an individual, we encourage you to share your wish concerning revitalization in your congregation with fellow congregants. Sharing visions and studying text in community are two key ingredients in the process of congregational transformation. The ECE seeks to support congregational revitalization by creating a network of congregations facing similar challenges and holding shared aspirations. The ECE affirms the Talmudic saying, "A man should always associate himself with the congregation" (Brachot 30a). To extend the idea even further, we believe that congregations can strengthen themselves by becoming part of a multi-denominational network committed to transforming congregational life. (To learn more about what the ECE has to offer congregations interested in revitalization and innovation, click here.)