#204: Machshavah

Rav Samson Raphael Hirsch explains that the root of the prohibition against performing melachah on Shabbat is to remind us to nullify our human actions before Hashem. Rav Wolbe, Rav Dessler, and others expand on this idea, teaching that on Shabbat, human control over nature is relinquished, leaving Hashem, Creator of the world, as the sole Authority. Refraining from melachah on Shabbat is therefore not simply an inconvenience that prevents us from accomplishing things we want to do, but rather an opportunity to internalize the recognition that Hashem alone controls the world and all creative activity within it.

This weekly reminder of Who truly governs the world was powerfully echoed in the experience of former hostage Keith Siegel. According to his daughter, his Jewish identity became a source of strength during his captivity: “Dad searched for his Jewish identity while in captivity, and he found it in small prayers. He started saying blessings over food, like ‘Borei Minei Mezonot’ (a blessing for non-bread foods -ed.), which he had never said before, and ‘Shema Yisrael,’ which he had never recited in his life. Amidst all that hell, he wanted to remember that he was Jewish, that there was meaning to his people and to the place from which he came, and that strengthened him greatly.”

Shabbat also played a crucial role in his renewed connection to Judaism. After his return, his daughter asked him what he wanted for their first Shabbat meal together. She expected him to request his favorite dish or a good challah, but his answer was profoundly simple:

“You know what I want most of all? A kippah and a Kiddush cup.”

May we all draw inspiration from this story and from the timeless message of Shabbat. By refraining from melachah and reciting berachot, we affirm our belief that Hashem is in charge of all activity in this world. May this recognition bring us strength and hope, even as we also mourn for those who have been killed during the war. May Hashem remove all sorrow and bless us with only good news in the coming weeks and months.

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.