Rules of the Road

I hope you will find my blog interesting and inspiring. To help make your visit more profitable, please observe these Rules of the Road.

1. I am not a rabbi. If you have a question regarding halachah (Jewish law) please consult a rabbi.

2. Please do not visit on Shabbat or Jewish holidays.

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4. Additional resources are listed at the end of each post for readers who would like more information on the topic.

5. Please explore the other pages of this blog to learn about the basics of living a Jewish life and to find out more about me and my projects.

6. You may contact me via email at welshabba@gmail.com or leave a text or voice message at 267-225-8573.

Tuesday, March 12, 2019

Show Up for Shabbat: Putting It All Together

Shabbat is the most wonderful day of the week! We take a break from our daily routine to refresh our souls, reconnect with God, family and friends. It is important to get Shabbat off to a good start. A synagogue near my home posted and interesting idea on their signpost. It said simply "Show up for Shabbat." The thought was to try to attract people who rarely came to services to "show up" and learn how beautiful Shabbat can be. Here is a simple plan for making Shabbat at home a memorable time. (Below I'll list some on line resources to help you learn how to plan and perform each part of the service.)

Setting up for Shabbat.

You will need two Shabbat candles in festive candle holders, a Kiddush cup for the blessing over the wine, and a tray with two challot (the special Shabbat bread, available in most grocery stores and bakeries. Make sure it is certified kosher!)

Invite Some Guests.

Having guests for Shabbat is not only a mitzvah but a great way to make the day enjoyable for all. Invite a few friends, family members or co-workers to join you for Friday night Shabbat Dinner.

Light the Shabbat Candles

Shabbat begins with the lighting of the special Shabbat candles. This is traditionally done by the Lady of the House.

Begin with Traditional Shabbat Songs.

The familiar Shabbat hymn "Shalom Aleichem" sets the mood for the evening. In some families the husband chants "Eichet Chayil," verses from Proverbs that pay honor to the wife and mother.

Bless the Children.

In most Jewish homes a special blessing is recited over boys and girls separately followed by the Priestly Blessing for all children.

Chant the Kiddush.

Traditionally it is the male head of household who chants the Kiddush, sanctifying the Shabbat over a cup of wine or grape juice.

Ritual Handwashing.

Each person goes to the sink and washes both hands in the ritual manner using a small cup to pour the water over each hand.

Blessing Over the Challot.

The meal begins with the blessing over the bread.

Enjoy a Festive Meal.

What you serve is up to you but the meal should be special for such a special day. Use your best dishes. I've included a link to provide you with some recipes to give you a start. Don't forget dessert!

Recite the "Blessing After Meals."

There are several place where you can find the text for this blessing: in your siddur, in small booklets which contain the text by itself, or at the link below.

I know that this seems like a lot of work. Well it is. As my Dad used to say, "Anything worth doing is worth doing right!" Enlist some help. Get the whole family involved. Make it a fun and exciting adventure. Most of all, enjoy the Shabbat. 

Wishing you and your loved ones "Shabbat shalom!"

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