The concept I would now like to focus on comes from the teachings of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov zt”l and his disciples, especially Rabbi Nosson of Breslov zt”l.
It is often understood in the following way:
When a person consistently focuses on a particular matter for a fixed period of time — often 40 days — through prayer, hitbodedut (personal conversation with HaShem), and inner clarity, he may receive a distinct form of response, guidance, or change.
It is important to understand:
This is not a “magical guarantee” that after exactly 40 days a voice from Heaven will automatically appear.
Rather, it is a spiritual process.
Why Specifically 40 Days?
The number 40 carries deep spiritual significance within Judaism:
- Moses remained on Mount Sinai for 40 days.
- The Flood (Mabul) lasted 40 days.
- A mikveh traditionally contains 40 se’ah of water.
- Forty days are often viewed as a period of inner transformation.
From this, the following idea developed within the Breslov tradition:
Through daily persistence and continual inner focus, a person’s heart and perception begin to change.
How Do Some People Practice This?
Typically, it is practiced approximately as follows:
- Bringing the same request before HaShem every day.
- Preferably at the same time each day.
- Using sincere and personal words (hitbodedut).
- Speaking and praying daily for 20–60 minutes.
- Simultaneously strengthening emunah (faith and trust).
- Paying attention to signs, inner clarity, or doors that begin to open.
Common subjects include:
- Shidduch / marriage
- Parnassah (livelihood)
- Choosing a place to live
- Spiritual guidance
- Healing
- Difficult decisions
What Does It Mean to Receive an “Answer”?
According to Breslov teachings, an answer may come through:
- Inner calm or clarity
- Events in daily life
- Doors opening or closing
- Changed feelings
- A sudden insight
- Sometimes through a tzaddik
- A book
- A conversation
- Or even a dream
However, the answer may also be:
- “No”
- “Not yet”
- Or:
- “Different from what you expected.”
A Central Teaching of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov zt”l
Rabbi Nachman of Breslov strongly emphasized that the most important thing is the relationship with HaShem — not merely the final result.
The daily, honest conversation with HaShem transforms the person himself.
A famous Breslov teaching says approximately:
“Speak with HaShem the way you would speak with a close and trusted friend.”
Ani HaShem Rofecha
“I am HaShem, your Healer.”
