Jewish Reconstructionist Federation

Shawn ZevitJRF is committed to leading and supporting congregations in Tikkun HaNefesh V'Olam, the healing and repair of the individual person and the world at large.

Browse our growing library of tikkun olam resources, organized by type.

"Justice, justice you shall pursue" (Deut. 16:20).

“A theology which is not a plan of social action is merely a way of preaching and praying. It is a menu without the dinner.” (Mordecai Kaplan, Not So Random Thoughts)

Today, much of the Jewish world understands tikkun olam as social justice and global repair. However, this is only one part of the equation that leaves out the holistic vision that emerged over preceding centuries in the religious tradition and culture of the Jewish people. Tikkun in its fullest sense includes not only the idea of tikkun olam, but tikkun hanefesh (rebalancing and repair of the individual soul) as well. JRF and our member communities strive for an integrative approach of tikkun hanefesh v'olam in our personal, communal and societal efforts.

Tikkun means, I look at what the work I need to do individually for my my own physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual well-being. Tikkun also means actively participating in engagement with the larger world for the sake of communal and global well-being, healing and justice. At the same time, we strive to be mindful of the interdependence of, and need to, seek balance between particular and universal needs.

I really believe that we must now talk and act on a level of political, social, economic, environmental and spiritual sustainability if tikkun hanefesh v'olam are to be actualized beyond the occasional mitzvah day or tzedakah collection (worthwhile ventures to be sure, but not end goals in and of themselves).

We hope the resources, external affiliations and programs contained in these Tikkun Olam pages will help you and your community or organization pursue responses to the many areas of concern we face in North America and around the world.

As a Jewish community, social, economic or environmental problems are realities to be fully met in the broadest coalitions and the smallest local initiatives. Together we can pursue the Divine call to do what is just for tikkun hanefesh and tikkun olam. Please be in touch and let us know how we can best partner in this sacred endeavor.