Shabbat Symphony

We learn that Shabbat is referred to as מעין עולם הבא, a taste of the next world. If observed properly, it is one sixtieth of the ecstasy felt in the next world.

Rabbi Twerski made an interesting analogy, to express this idea. Someone bought an extremely elaborate sound system for his home. He was told that when hearing symphonies, he will feel that he is actually sitting in the audience. Excitedly, the fellow connected the system, and the sounds were scratchy and unclear. He was told that he had not connected the wiring correctly. Once he got it right, the sound was exquisite and went beyond expectations.

The same is true of our Shabbat observance. If not done with the right intent, with the day filled with Torah, prayers, good food, and family bonding, there will be some loose wires and disconnect. But when observed with the focus on the holiness of the day, and blocking out the worries of the week, we will have our own symphony of Shabbat joy.