“u’va’Yom ha’Shevi’i shovas vayinofash” (31:17).
‘G-d gives a person all extra Neshamah on Erev Shabbos, and then on Motza’ei Shabbos, He takes it away as the Torah writes “shovas vayinofash” ‘(Beitzah 16a).
The G’ro cites another Gemara in Shabbos (118a) ‘whoever gives the Shabbos joy will receive an unlimited inheritance … ‘ One achieves this through food, drink and nice clothes. However, this should be enjoyed for the sake of Shabbos, and not for one’s own personal benefit (as the-above words imply). And that is why we say ‘Me’angehah Le’olam kovod yinchalu’ (the one who gives it joy will inherit everlasting honor) … ‘it’, the extra Neshamah (which is synonymous with the Shabbos).
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With this we can better understand the dialogue between Rebbi Yehoshua and the Roman Emperor, cited in Shabbos (119a). When the latter asked the former for the recipe of the beautiful Shabbos food of which he had heard, he was informed that it is only someone who actually observes the Shabbos, who can provide Shabbos with the joy, by enjoying Shabbos for Shabbos’ sake. Someone who does not observe Shabbos, cannot possibly do this.
SHORT VORT, Rabbi Moshe Kormornick. Published by Adir Press. $9.99 in stores worldwide and online here
Whether you are looking for something meaningful on the Parsha, an uplifting thought for Yom Tov, or have been asked to speak at a Simcha – “Short Vort” is the book for you! With over 140 incredible short vorts packed with stories and valuable life messages, you will never be lost for something inspiring to say.
Rabbi Moshe Kormornick is a popular writer whose words are enjoyed by thousands of readers every week.
