אות קין-אות שבת

The נתיבות שלום speaks a great deal about the power of Shabbat observance. Upon discussing the sin of Cain against his brother, Abel, we are told that Cain was concerned that as a wanderer, he could easily be killed by anyone who would meet him. Hashem places an אות, a sign on Cain’s forehead that whoever kills Cain will be punished sevenfold.

The נתיבות שלום says that the word “אות” is also used in connection with Shabbat, as is written, אות היא ביני וביניכם, that it is a sign between Hashem and the Jewish people. From here it is learned that Cain had a reprieve on Shabbat, where he had rest from his wandering.

Similarly, it’s written that those serving their sentence in Gehinnom, are allowed a day off on Shabbat. We must never minimize the magical effect of Shabbat and its observance.