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The Significance of the Seventh Day \ Parashat Yitro
D'var Torah: "Shabbat is the source of blessing; from the beginning of antiquity she was honored" (Lech Dodi). Once there was a debate between the "head" and the "other members of the body." We do all the work! Our hands labor, our feet walk, and our body carries the load. So why is it that you receive the first share of food and its enjoyment? Why is it that you always have the first word? The head responded: In truth, it is just that I have first rights! You see, if it wasn't for the wisdom and energy that I discharge to the rest of the body, you wouldn't be able to move, let alone perform any beneficial act. So too, the seventh day of the week gives us the spiritual nourishment, balance, and revitalization to free us from the material influence of the rest of the week. The holiness of Shabbat illuminates and elevates us, as well as, distributes its spiritual influence to the six days of the week.
Moral: The spiritual equilibrium of Shabbat balances and blesses the other six days of the week. In light of this, we will strengthen our Shabbat observance, just as Shabbat preserves and nurtures our spiritual wellbeing.
Application: (1) Reflect on the meaning of the words, "Shabbat is the source of blessing; from the beginning of antiquity she was honored." (2) Do something new to honor Shabbat. (3) Look forward to Shabbat with great anticipation and joy. (4) Experience and delight in the spiritual equilibrium of Shabbat. (5) Sense the holiness and light of Shabbat flowing into your life with blessings, holiness, and peace. (Based on the writings of Rav Yoseph Chaim Zonenfeld)
The Salant Foundation is currently looking for a Shul or community to partner with us in sharing the merit of the unique and important Salant Kollel. There are practical and easy ways (such as adoptakollel.org) to create a special mutual relationship between the Kollel and a Shul or community. If you think your shul or community or even workplace might want to participate in supporting the Salant Kollel, please contact Rabbi Zvi Miller at salantorg@gmail.com, and we'll discuss how to go about implementing your idea. Thank you. | 
