Honi Ha-Me’agel was a celebrated miracle worker of the First Century. “Ha-Me’agel” is widely understood to mean “The Circle Maker” – in reference to an incident (Ta’anit 23a) when, in a time of drought, Honi drew a circle around himself in the dry earth and refused to leave the spot until his prayers for rain were answered. When it then rained lightly, Honi offered a prayer demanding more substantial rain. When torrential rains fell, he prayerfully insisted upon moderate precipitation. Each prayer was answered in turn.
Shimon ben Shetach said Honi deserved to be excommunicated for the arrogant presumption in his approach to prayer… but relented because of the unrivalled efficacy of Honi’s petitions and his apparent intimacy with the Almighty!
Others suggest that “Ha-Me’agel” means “thatcher” (roofer) or “oven repairman.” A thatcher would certainly have a vested interest in rainy conditions: his services would be in urgent demand!
Though no halachic rulings are recorded in his name, it is said that Honi would resolve intractable debates among the Sages.
Josephus records that Honi was murdered when he refused to pray for partisan outcomes during a time of violent Jewish national infighting (Antiquities 14:22).
Honi Ha-Me’agel was a miracle worker, master of prayer, superior scholar, and champion of Jewish national unity.
When it rains, it pours.
Rabbi Joseph H. Prouser is the editor of “Masorti: The New Journal of Conservative Judaism.” The latest edition of Masorti published in the summer of 2026 and honors the American Sestercentennial. A subscription is $18 per annum. Print copies are available from Ben Yehuda Press and Amazon.
Shimon ben Shetach said Honi deserved to be excommunicated for the arrogant presumption in his approach to prayer… but relented because of the unrivalled efficacy of Honi’s petitions and his apparent intimacy with the Almighty!