תִּקּוּן עוֹלָם
tikun olam
Tikkun olam means repairing the world, and today it stands for working toward a fairer society
What it means
Tikkun olam is Hebrew for repairing the world, and tikkun can also mean improvement or setting right. The phrase has carried several meanings. In the Mishnah it is the reason given for legal changes meant to keep society working, such as the rules for divorce documents. The Aleinu prayer uses it for ending idolatry, and in Kabbalah it means returning sparks of divine light to their source.
When Israelis say it
In the modern era tikkun olam has come to stand for the pursuit of social justice, on the idea that Jews bear responsibility for the welfare of society at large as well as their own. In Jewish thought the idea is tied to building society and loving one's neighbor. The value is prominent in Liberal Judaism.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the phrase tikkun olam come from?
It appears in the Mishnah, where it gives the reason for certain legal rulings. The social justice meaning is modern.
Is tikkun olam the same as tzedakah?
No, but they are linked. Tzedakah is giving to those in need, while tikkun olam is the wider idea of improving the world.