Judaism has a rich tradition of meditation, though it may not always resemble the structured practices of Eastern traditions. Jewish meditation, often called hitbonenut (self-reflection) or hitbodedut (seclusion), focuses on deep contemplation of God, Torah, and personal spiritual growth. These practices date back to the early Kabbalists and Hasidic masters, who emphasized meditative techniques to achieve greater connection with the Divine. Through repetitive chanting (niggunim), visualization, breath work, and focused prayer, Jewish meditation seeks to elevate the soul and foster mindfulness in daily life.
One of the most well-known forms of Jewish meditation is hitbodedut, a practice taught by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov. It involves speaking spontaneously and intimately with God, often in solitude, as a way to cultivate spiritual awareness and emotional clarity. Another meditative approach is kavanah (intention), which encourages deep focus on the meaning of prayers and mitzvot (commandments) to enhance their spiritual impact. Additionally, Kabbalistic meditation employs sacred Hebrew letters, divine names, and mystical visualizations to achieve states of heightened awareness. While Jewish meditation is often intertwined with prayer and Torah study, it ultimately serves as a means to quiet the mind, draw closer to God, and live with greater intention and purpose.