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In Jewish mysticism, the Lamed Vav (Hebrew: ל״ו, meaning 36) refers to the Tzadikim Nistarim (Hidden Righteous Ones). According to tradition, there are 36 humble, anonymous saints in every generation whose purpose is to justify humanity’s existence before God. [1, 2, 3, 4]

The concept originates in the Babylonian Talmud (Sukkah 45b and Sanhedrin 97b), based on a teaching by the sage Abaye that the world always contains at least 36 righteous people who greet the Divine Presence. The number 36 comes from the Hebrew letters Lamed (30) and Vav (6). [1, 2, 3]

Key aspects of the legend include:

• Anonymity: They are completely unaware of their own status. If a Lamed Vavnik’s identity is revealed, or they discover it themselves, they usually pass away, and a successor is born. [1, 2]
• Humbleness: They typically live as ordinary, working-class people—such as laborers, shoemakers, or farmers—masking their spiritual greatness. [1, 2]
• The Burden of the World: They are said to absorb the world’s suffering and keep it from being destroyed by human malice. [1, 2, 3, 4]

The tradition is explored in depth across folklore and literature, most notably in André Schwarz-Bart’s novel The Last of the Just. For further study on the origins of these hidden saints, you can read the comprehensive overview on Chabad.org or explore the historical texts in the Jewish Virtual Library. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]