Jewish Meditation

Tikvat Israel is pleased to have one of the few Jewish meditation groups in the Greater Washington area. Meeting every week in the Tikvat Israel sanctuary, the group is led by Janaki Kuruppu, MD, a congregant who has extensive experience in the meditative tradition.

The session typically begins with ten minutes of silent meditation to create a break from "the everyday" and help quiet the mind. A brief discussion of themes in the upcoming week's Torah portion provides the focus for a longer meditative period lasting about 20 or 30 minutes.

Various techniques, including chanting, walking meditation, and visualization, are used to explore different ways of accessing the richness of the contemplative experience.

No special skills are required to be a meditator at Tikvat Israel. All are welcome, from beginners to those with more experience. Some participants prefer to meditate from the pew seats, while others are more comfortable bringing a cushion or blanket for the floor.

When: Monday, 8-9pm and Shabbat Afternoons, beginning 1-1/2 hours before the scheduled Mincha service (check the calendar for actual time)

Where: Sanctuary

For more information, please contact Janaki Kuruppu at jkuruppu@gmail.com or by phone at 301-509-1895.