If you had to choose two of the most important aspects connected with the preparation of Shabbath, what would they be?
The Ben Ish Hai (Ben Ish Hai, Shana Beh, Parashath Lekh Lekha) guides us and explains that Zerizuth (quickness) and Simha (joy) are two essential prerequisites in the process of preparing for Shabbath. In fact, he writes, that the source of Zerizuth is the feeling of Joy, because whatever makes a person happy, he is most likely to do quickly. The two Middoth (traits), happiness and quickness are interconnected and both are praiseworthy.
The word in Hebrew for quick is Zariz, which has the equal numerical value (Gematria) of the words Zer Tob, literally meaning good crown. This indicates that serving Hashem in such a manner, quickly, is considered to be a crown to the person's head.
Friday is a challenging day in many homes. We, women, are the ones who set the tone and determine what kind of an atmosphere our homes will reflect on Fridays. Let us remember the two basic guidelines transmitted to us by Hakham Yoseph Hayyim. The first piece of advice, let us get ready with gladness and joy. We can play music or hum a song while cooking, cleaning, or baking for Shabbath. The second suggestion is, let us wake up early in the morning with enthusiasm and excitement. This will make us worthy of wearing a crown on our head.
My dear friends, it is in our hands to turn our challenging Fridays into blessed and joyful ones. Our actions will have a significant effect on how our family will react to Friday and Shabbath: will they dread the tension and pressure of the home, or will it be a pleasant and cheerful experience? Let us work to make the rewarding and fulfilling choice.
