Find Peace and Connection in the Midst of Chaos: The Practice of Hitbodedut
Have you ever felt the need to step outside, take a deep breath, and just talk to something greater than yourself? That's the essence of Hitbodedut:
Hitbodedut is the Hebrew word for meditation. A practice that is attributed to the prophets and to other highly spiritual individuals after them, it has become popularized through the works and followers of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.
In this week's Parsha Chayei Sarah, we encounter Isaac, who goes out to the field at dusk. The Torah says:
וַיֵּצֵ֥א יִצְחָ֛ק לָשׂ֥וּחַ בַּשָּׂדֶ֖ה לִפְנ֣וֹת עָ֑רֶב וַיִּשָּׂ֤א עֵינָיו֙ וַיַּ֔רְא וְהִנֵּ֥ה גְמַלִּ֖ים בָּאִֽים׃
vaye' tzei Yitzchak la' suach ba' sadeh lifnot arev
And Isaac went out walking in the field toward evening and, looking up, he saw camels approaching. Genesis 24:63
The Hebrew "לָשׂוּחַ" (la' suach) often translates to talk. The Talmud says that Isaac was doing more than just taking a stroll; he was talking with God. He was practicing his own form of Hitbodedut.
"And Isaac went out to converse [lasuaḥ] in the field toward evening" (Genesis 24:63), and conversation means nothing other than prayer, as it is stated: "A prayer of the afflicted when he is faint and pours out his complaint [siḥo] before the Lord" (Psalms 102:1).
The rabbis of the Talmud concluded that Isaac went out to the field to commune with God. Putting it another way, Isaac went out to the field to meditate, pray, or have a conversation with God.
Like Isaac, we can tap into the power of hitbodedut and have a conversation with the Divine. When we do, we should talk to God with honesty and an open heart.
Like Isaac, we can find strength and solace in this practice. Rabbi Nachman's wisdom tells us that when we pray outside, all the trees and plants join in, and all the plants and animals sing Hallelujah, and because they join, they help invigorate our own prayers.
But what if you can't find that serene woodland or quiet field? Any safe, quiet space can become a sanctuary. Whether it's your bedroom, a park bench, or the backseat of your car during your lunch break, God is there, ready to listen.
Our days are filled, and our schedules are tight, but there's always a moment to be found for a heart-to-heart with the Divine.
Next time you feel the urge, step outside or find a quiet corner and just talk—pour out your questions, gratitude, and frustrations. Speak with honesty and an open heart, and know you're in the good company of those like Isaac and Rabbi Nachman.
Hitbodedut is a beautiful and meaningful way to connect with something greater than ourselves. It is a time to reflect on our lives, to express our gratitude, and to ask for guidance. It is also a time to simply be present in the moment and to experience the peace and tranquility of nature.
Everyone can benefit from incorporating some form of Hitbodedut into their lives. Even if you can't find a quiet place to go outside, you can still create a space of solitude and introspection in your own home. Simply find a quiet corner, take a few deep breaths, and let your thoughts flow.
Here are a few tips for practicing Hitbodedut:
Find a quiet place where you won't be interrupted.
Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
Begin by speaking from your heart.
Don't worry about what you say. Just let your words flow.
Be patient. It may take some time to feel comfortable speaking to God.
Be open to receiving guidance and support.
Remember, a connection with the Divine can be cultivated anywhere, at any time.
Episode 1 of Soulful Shalom. Check it out and follow and let me know what you think.
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