Shabbat Hagadol

The Shabbat before Pesach is known as, “Shabbat Hagadol,” the great Shabbat. It is given this name for two reasons.

The first reason is that the full name for this Shabbat, is really שבת הנס הגדול. The great miracle that occurred on this Shabbat in Egypt, was that a lamb, which was worshipped by the Egyptians, was tied to the bedposts in preparation for slaughter on Erev Pesach. This was seen and explained to the Egyptians, and they did not protest. This was a great miracle.

The second explanation for this special Shabbat comes from the Haftarah from the Book of Malachi. He wrote of the יום הגדול, the “great day,” when Eliyahu Hanavi would be sent to proclaim the coming of the Mashiach.

Rav Kook wrote that the first Seder in Egypt was different from the future Seders that Jews would celebrate over the generations. The emphasis placed on the Korban Pesach, was the absolute cancellation and nullification of the idol worship that was rampant in Egypt. But it also focused on the faith that we are meant to have every year.

This is reflected on the role of Eliyahu Hanavi. We mention him on Shabbat Hagadol as we open the door for him at the Seder. It is a reminder that we never stop believing in our ultimate redemption.

This is what Shabbat Hagadol and Pesach is all about. It is a time of faith and hope for the future. Great days are ahead for the Jewish people!