What Does L’Chaim Really Mean? Bridging Jewish Identity and Personal Growth

L’chaim is commonly translated as "to life" and often used as a toast—cheers! It carries a connotation of joy and gratitude. 

In Hebrew, though, this phrase is in the plural form reserved for things that come in twos. It literally means "to two lives”, sparking endless debate about which lives it refers to. 

Some commentaries say it’s about this life and the world to come. Others suggest it refers to our internal and external worlds, the present and the future, or the life we are living versus the life God has planned for us. 

Well, I don’t believe in the afterlife, and I don’t really believe in God, at least not as they’re typically described in Jewish tradition. 

Yet, l’chaim still holds deep meaning for me. 

To me, l’chaim is about bridging the gap between the life we’re living and the life we’re meant to live—the life that honors our unique purpose. The one we dream about. The one we’re excited to wake up to every morning. 

L’chaim is a reminder. Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans, right? L’chaim calls attention to what truly matters. The darkness creeps in when we’re out of alignment, chasing a life that isn’t really ours. Depression, anxiety, and overwhelm often take root when we try to squeeze ourselves into a mold that just doesn’t fit. 

I also believe that every single one of us is here for a reason. My passion is to help you uncover yours, close the gap between who you are and who you’re meant to be, and start living the life you were born for.

L’chaim—to life, to life, to purpose!