Mealtime Blessings
The blessings recited before and after eating, from HaMotzi over bread to Birkat HaMazon.
Before Eating
Netilat Yadayim
The blessing for the ritual washing of the hands before eating bread.
HaMotzi
The blessing over bread, recited before eating bread at a meal.
Mezonot
The blessing over foods made from the five grains, such as cake and pasta.
HaGafen
The blessing over wine and grape juice.
Borei Pri HaEtz
The blessing over fruit that grows on trees.
Borei Pri HaAdamah
The blessing over vegetables and produce that grows from the ground.
Shehakol
The blessing recited over foods and drinks not covered by a more specific blessing.
After Eating
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About Mealtime Blessings
Mealtime Blessings are an essential part of Jewish religious practice. Am Hazak provides the complete text for each prayer in Hebrew with English translations, making it easy to follow along and understand the meaning behind each blessing.
Whether you're learning these prayers for the first time or looking for a convenient reference, our collection of 10 prayers in this category covers everything you need for mealtime blessings.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the food: HaMotzi for bread, Mezonot for grain foods, HaGafen for wine, HaEtz for tree fruit, HaAdamah for produce, and Shehakol for everything else.
After a meal with bread, Birkat HaMazon (Grace After Meals) is recited; after other foods, a shorter blessing such as Borei Nefashot or Me'ein Shalosh is said.