Daily Zohar # 4801 – Vayakhel – The deeper understanding of the Shabbat table

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Hebrew translation:

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Zohar Vayakhel
Continued from previous DZ
#174
Come and see: When Shabbat begins, and that fire (מדורה Medurah) is concealed within the great abyss, then all harsh fires are hidden and subdued. Because that fire, which is the stormy wind (רוח סערה, Ruach Se’arah), is the root of all severe judgments (As explained in #161 above). Even the fire of Gehinnom and the wicked in Gehinnom find rest on Shabbat. And thus, everything—above and below—experiences rest.
When Shabbat ends, and Israel blesses the fire (in Havdalah), then all the fires that had been hidden re-emerge. Each one returned to its proper place. And in order not to awaken another fire from among those that had been concealed, it is written: “לֹא תְבַעֲרוּ אֵשׁ בְּכֹל מֹשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם בְּיוֹם הַשַּׁבָּת” “You shall not kindle a fire in any of your dwellings on the Shabbat day” (Exodus 35:3). And it has already been explained why the fire of the altar is permitted on Shabbat. (#258)
#175
But when Shabbat enters, a heavenly proclamation is made across all the heavens: “Prepare the chariots! Prepare the camps! Before your Master!” Then, a single spirit emerges from the south, which is the light of Chessed. And this spirit spreads across all the celestial armies and camps on the right side, And they clothe themselves in it. This spirit is called the “לְבוּשׁ כָּבוֹד שֶׁל שַׁבָּת” “Glorious Garment of Shabbat.” Then, the tables that people set in this world become arranged within a certain palace, which is Malchut. Fortunate is the person whose set table below appears on the upper level properly, For everything there is arranged without shame, each person according to his ability.

Notes:
The Shabbat table is not just a place to eat—it is a place to experience holiness, unity, and spiritual renewal.  It is compared to the Mizbe’ach (altar) in the Holy Temple. Just as offerings in the Temple were prepared with precision and reverence, so too should our Shabbat table be arranged with care, beauty, and intentionality. By setting the table with care, we demonstrate our love and respect for Shabbat, reinforcing the idea that this day is truly a gift from Hashem. Whether through fine dishes, glowing lights, or heartfelt blessings, each detail contributes to making the Shabbat meal a sanctuary of peace and divine presence in our homes. Just as we prepare the table for Shabbat, so too does Hashem prepare a table for us in the World to Come. May we always approach Shabbat with joy, reverence, and a heart full of gratitude.
Shabbat Shalom!

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