Psalms for Livelihood and Prosperity (Parnasa)
Which Psalms do you say for livelihood?
The central chapter for livelihood is 145 (Ashrei), particularly the verse "You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing" (verse 16). The Talmud (Tractate Berakhot 4b) states that one who recites Ashrei three times daily is assured a place in the World to Come. Additional chapters: 23, 65, 107, 128.
For blessing and livelihood, the most prominent chapter is Psalm 145 (Ashrei), especially the verse "You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing" (verse 16). The Talmud (Tractate Berakhot 4b) ascribes special importance to this psalm — "One who recites Tehilla L'David every day three times is assured of a place in the World to Come." Chapter 23 ("The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want") expresses trust in divine abundance. Chapter 65 ("Praise awaits You, O God in Zion") is a blessing for the year and the produce of the earth. Chapter 128 ("Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord") is a blessing for the household and livelihood. Custom: recite Ashrei three times daily with special focus on the verse "You open Your hand." These chapter lists reflect widely-cited traditional Jewish custom. Different communities and authorities may use slightly different chapter sets.
Based on traditional sources
Traditional Chapters
These chapter lists reflect widely-cited traditional Jewish custom. Different communities may use slightly different chapter sets.
שאלות נפוצות
Which Psalms do you say for livelihood?+
The central chapter is 145 (Ashrei), especially verse 16: "You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing." Additional chapters: 23, 65, 107, 128. The Talmud (Berakhot 4b) states that reciting Ashrei three times daily is a merit for the World to Come.
When is the right time to recite Psalms for livelihood?+
The common custom is to recite these chapters in the morning before the Amida prayer, when the spirit is most attentive. Some recite specifically on Mondays and Thursdays (days of mercy). Continuous recitation for 40 days is considered a special segula.
Does Chapter 145 (Ashrei) help with livelihood?+
Yes. The Talmud (Berakhot 4b) attributes special importance to Psalm 145 (Ashrei), and particularly verse 16 — "You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing" — is considered a segula for abundance and livelihood. It is recited three times daily.
Sources
- • גמרא, מסכת ברכות ד: (חשיבות "אשרי" / פרק קמה)
- • Westminster Leningrad Codex (Public Domain) — openscriptures/morphhb
Based on traditional sources — not a substitute for rabbinic guidance