Debbie Friedman

Debbie Friedman (1951–2011) was an American singer-songwriter whose accessible Hebrew and English settings of Jewish prayer reshaped contemporary worship, especially in Reform Judaism.

Connect

Mishkan T'filah: A Reform Jewish prayer book published in 2007, combining traditional liturgy with contemporary readings and translations. Its contemporary worship setting reflects the liturgical environment Friedman helped shape.
Mi Shebeirach: A Jewish prayer asking God to bring healing to people who are ill or recovering. Friedman’s setting became a widely used communal expression of care and healing.
Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute: A Reform Jewish summer camp in Wisconsin operated by the Union for Reform Judaism. Friedman encountered Jewish communal singing and developed songs in the camp setting.
Tamara R. Cohen: An American Reform Jewish cantor and educator associated with contemporary Jewish worship and music. Cohen is among the cantors who continued teaching and interpreting Friedman’s repertoire.
L'chi Lach: A Hebrew song by Debbie Friedman inspired by God’s call to Abraham to leave his homeland. Its themes of journey and courage made it a popular song for Jewish life-cycle moments.
Reform Judaism: A Jewish religious movement that adapts Jewish practice and belief to changing historical and social conditions. Friedman’s music became especially influential in this movement’s congregational worship.
Oseh Shalom: A Hebrew prayer asking God to establish peace for Israel and all humanity. Her musical setting turned this liturgical text into a familiar congregational song.
Union for Reform Judaism: The North American organization serving Reform Jewish congregations and institutions. Its camps and congregational network helped carry Friedman’s music into Reform Jewish life.
Cantor: A Jewish worship leader responsible for chanting, singing, and often teaching liturgical music. Cantors helped introduce Friedman’s songs into congregational prayer.
Not By Might: A Debbie Friedman song based on the biblical phrase that peace comes not by might but by spirit. It shows how she transformed a short scriptural line into a communal song.