The commandment of keeping Shabbath is repeated in this week's parasha: "The children of Israel shall observe the Sabbath..." (Shemoth 31, 16).
In the Gemara (Shabbath 10:) we are told that G-d told Moshe Rabbenu 'a"h the following: "I have a precious gift in My treasure house, called the Shabbath. I desire to give it to the children of Israel, go and tell them".
The Ohr Hahayyim Haqadosh comments that the use of the verb "Weshamru" (observe) alludes to the fact that we have to anxiously wait for the Shabbath. This special day must not, G-d forbid, be a burden. On the contrary, it is a day to look forward to. Hakham Yoseph Hayyim 'a"h writes that we should start our mental preparation for Shabbath from the Wednesday preceding that Shabbath.
As women, our role in creating an atmosphere of anticipation for Shabbath is essential. To a large extent, the association of pleasant and exciting feelings for the coming of this holy day is dependent on how we prepare for Shabbath. Do we hear voices singing and music playing or people shouting and screaming? Do we feel tension in the air or are we surrounded by a calm and relaxed atmosphere? Do we receive the Shabbath, the queen, like an important guest, or light the candles in our work clothes?
My dear friends, I know it is the dream of every Jewish woman, to build a home where Shabbath is a day to look forward to by the entire family. With proper planning and organization it can be achieved. Your Shabbath can be a manifestation of "a precious gift from His treasure house".
