Rabbi’s Reflections – Sunday, June 24, 2018
Shavua Tov!
The Havdalah service marks the end of Shabbat. It is named after the Hebrew word “Mavdeal” which means “division.” Havdalah marks the division between the royalty of the holy (sanctity of the) Shabbat and what is called “the profanity” of the common rest of the week. This is not that profanity.
Just as the front end of the Shabbat is marked with candle lighting and kiddush (fruit of the vine blessing), the same is true of Havdalah. However; there are some differences. For instance, at Havdalah we add the smell of sweet spices (like cinnamon).
As I just said, both the start and end of Shabbat is sanctified with the lighting of candles. This time, unlike at the start of Shabbat (when we let the candles burn until they extinguish themselves by burning down completely), at Havdalah we extinguish the candle at the end of the service. Also, the candle itself is different, a braided multi-wick candle is used.
Why do we add the smell of sweet spices? It is symbolic of a prayer for a sweet week. Anyway, I thought you would like to know something about Havdalah. Here is a video link if you would like to see it for yourself. The ceremony generally takes less than 5 minutes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDn1zOqPVx4
Time for a Hebrew lesson. Learn this sentence and how to use it.
“Aych Sidarti Ot’cha.” (if said to male)
“Aych Sidarti Otach.” (if said to a female)
Rabbi Trail: You pick one if you’re speaking to someone involved in the sin of gender fluidity. I didn’t call it a sin, God did. Direct your offense (if this offends you) to Him, not to me. Thank you.
The best translation is “How I put you in order.” It is idiomatic for, “How I got one up on you.” The best time to use this Hebrew sentence is never. It is God who puts us in order, not our friends or acquaintances (on a good day).
Proverbs 16:9 The heart of man plans his course, but Adonai directs his steps.
Once we receive Yeshua as our Lord and Savior, Adonai puts us in order (or orders our steps). We submit (place ourselves under) His authority. Then He can work with us to put every area of our lives in order according to His way (He only has one way, as we heard on Shabbat during the message).
Lastly, did I mention His way is perfect. Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of Adonai brings wealth and He adds no trouble with it.
Have a great week. R. Michael.