The Shabbos comes to a close and we prepare for the ritual of havdalah to seal the rite of Motzei Shabbos. As the family gathers, many emotions are at play. Havdalah marks the separation between holy and every day, sacred and mundane. First, we recognized G-d as our strength, our cup of deliverance as we close the door to the holy, and remit the secular world. We petition that we are proper, be blessed, have success. The ceremony incorporates the twisted candle compromised of multiple wicks all joining together in one bright light, the flame representing G-d’s light, and a separation of holy and every day. The multi wicks rise as one, symbolizing the unity of the Jewish people. The spiritual energy Shabbos recharges and restores physically and emotionally for the complexities and challenges of the coming week.
The use of spices – cloves, cinnamon, cardamon stored in a besamin box – serves as a pleasant consolation upon the departure of the “extra soul” of Shabbos. Its sweet scent restores the soul and eases the transaction from the Shabbos aura of peace and prayer to the world of toil and responsibility.
After the tragedy of Charlie Kirk, who was Christian, I was surprised to learn of his call to honor the Sabbath as a means to transform our lives. This serves as an antidote for the human spirit, the salve for the soul, a reaffirmation of our connection to G-d, enriching and heightening the spiritual quality of our lives. The beauty and message of Shabbos, even after it departs, never disappoints. It is said that when the Messiah comes, we will experience one long Shabbos. What could be better?