“AMEN SONGS”: Lechi Lach

Over the year, I will be highlighting various songs that underscore Neveh Shalom’s theme, “Amen – Be a Blessing.” This week, the song I want to bring to your attention is Debbie Friedman’s “Lechi Lach.”

The song itself is a blessing, echoing God’s promise to Abraham in Parashat Lech Lecha. Just as God blesses Abraham with a meaningful mission and the potential to bring blessing to others, Friedman’s lyrics remind us that each of us has the opportunity to be a source of blessing. The words “Lechi lach” and “Lech lecha” are an invitation, not just to Abraham but to each one of us, to embrace our journeys, wherever they may lead, with the trust that we are blessed and can be a blessing.

In the parasha, God calls Abraham to leave his homeland and go “to a land that I will show you,” a journey of faith with no certainty of destination. Friedman’s song captures this element of faith beautifully. The line, “And you shall be a blessing,” reinforces that Abraham’s journey—and ours—isn’t only about personal growth; it’s about becoming a blessing to others. Every step Abraham takes is infused with potential to bring goodness into the world, a calling that our theme this year invites us to emulate.

“Lechi Lach” reminds us that blessings come not only as gifts from above but also through the ways we walk our paths with purpose and kindness. By choosing this song, we reflect on the beauty of blessings as actions, words, and intentions that each of us can bring into our lives and the lives of those around us. Just as God promises to make Abraham’s name great, we can strive to bring goodness and positivity that resonates and uplifts others, embodying the sacred call to “be a blessing.”

Enjoy this video by the great Hazzan Azi Schwartz.

LECHI LACH

Lechi lach, to a land that I will show you
Lech lecha, to a place you do not know
Lechi lach, on your journey I will bless you
And you shall be a blessing, lechi lach

Lechi lach, and I shall make your name great
Lech lecha, and all shall praise your name
Lechi lach, to a place that I will show you
Lesimchat chayim, lechi lach