Tikkun HaKlali

What it is

The Tikkun HaKlali consists of ten specific chapters from the Book of Psalms. These are numbered sixteen, thirty-two, forty-one, forty-two, fifty-nine, seventy-seven, ninety, one-hundred-five, one-hundred-thirty-seven, and one-hundred-fifty. Reciters begin with a paragraph expressing their desire to connect with righteous figures throughout history. They also recite verses customary before reading Psalms. After the ten chapters, a prayer composed by Reb Noson asks for divine forgiveness.

Origins and history

Rebbe Nachman first shared the concept of this rectification in eighteen hundred five. He initially stated that any ten Psalms could serve this purpose. In eighteen hundred six, he taught on Shavuot about the power of song to counter evil forces. The specific selection of ten Psalms was revealed in April eighteen hundred ten. He shared this with two close disciples who witnessed his vow regarding the efficacy of this practice.

Mystical meaning

The practice addresses the misuse of the sexual organ and the resulting spiritual depression. This state is linked to Lilith, representing unholiness. The Psalms bring joy and praise, which counteract these negative feelings. The Hebrew word for Psalms shares numerical value with names of God. This connection helps release the soul from negative influences. The remedy undoes root feelings of frustration and restores alignment with divine will.

Practice and scope

Many followers recite this set daily as a general correction for all sins. Women also participate in this regular practice. It is considered essential when visiting the grave of Rebbe Nachman. Some individuals recite it weekly or daily alongside other selected Psalms. This additional reading aims to cleanse the soul before final redemption. The practice is viewed as a powerful tool for healing spiritual and physical ailments.

How Tikkun HaKlali is kept

Followers recite ten specific Psalms in a fixed order. The session starts with a declaration of loyalty to righteous leaders. A concluding prayer by Reb Noson seeks forgiveness. Many recite this daily. Others do so weekly or before other prayers. It is also said at the grave of Rebbe Nachman. Both men and women perform this ritual regularly.

When and where

It is kept daily by many adherents. Some recite it weekly. It is also performed before other prayers or at gravesites. The timing varies based on personal devotion levels.

It is strongest among Breslover Hasidim. Jerusalem is a key location for its observance. The practice spreads through communities following Rebbe Nachman's teachings globally.

What Tikkun HaKlali means

It represents a comprehensive spiritual cure. It counters depression and misused energy. The Psalms bring joy to heal the soul. It connects the individual to divine covenant. The remedy addresses the root of all sin through praise and repentance.

Questions people ask about Tikkun HaKlali

See also

Yom KippurThe holiest day in Judaism, dedicated to fasting, prayer and atonementHoly SaturdayThe closing day of Holy Week, a Saturday of waiting, fasting and vigil before EasterKol NidreAn Aramaic declaration of vow annulment that opens the Yom Kippur evening service in Jewish synagogues.Tisha B'AvA solemn fast day in July or August to mourn the destruction of the Jerusalem Temples and other Jewish tragedies.

Good reading and sources

• Tikkun HaKlali on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-06.