We’re all running around, stressed, dealing with work, family, life’s endless to-do lists. But then comes Shabbat, the Sabbath. A moment to breathe. A moment to reconnect. But it's more than just a day off. It's an opportunity, a sacred invitation.

And, according to the Zohar" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="source-link">Tikkunei_Zohar" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="source-link">Tikkunei Zohar, a central work of Kabbalah, it's a chance to actively cultivate peace, especially in our closest relationships.

The Tikkunei Zohar – literally, "Adornments of the Zohar" – dives deep into the mysteries of the Torah, offering interpretations and insights that are both profound and practical. And in the 113th Tikkun, we find a beautiful directive: to differentiate Shabbat from the rest of the week in…everything.

But what does that even mean?

Well, the Talmud (BT Shabbat 119a) hints at this idea of separation. We're meant to treat Shabbat differently, to elevate it. And the Tikkunei Zohar takes that a step further, focusing on the power of reconciliation. If there's been tension, stress, or disagreement during the week, Shabbat is the time to actively mend those rifts.

Think about it. During the week, we're often short-tempered, distracted. We might snap at our loved ones, not truly listen, or let little annoyances fester. But Shabbat offers us a chance to reset. To approach each other with fresh eyes, with kindness and understanding.

The Tikkunei Zohar gets really specific here. It suggests that if there's been conflict during the week, we should make an addition on Shabbat. An addition of…appeasement. To actively seek reconciliation with each other, with “much love," just like it is above.

"Like it is above"? What does that mean?

The text then quotes the Song of Songs (5:2), a love poem traditionally interpreted as an allegory for the relationship between God and the Shekhinah, the divine feminine presence: "Open for me, my sister, my beloved, my dove, my perfect one…"

According to the Tikkunei Zohar, these are "additional words of appeasement." Words of love, tenderness, and reconciliation. Just as, allegorically, the Divine seeks union and harmony, so too should we strive for harmony in our own relationships.

And then comes the really direct part: "Similarly, a person needs to appease his wife on the Sabbath, with additional words of appeasement."

Now, before anyone gets hung up on the gendered language, let's remember the context. This text was written in a specific time and place. But the underlying principle is universal. The Tikkunei Zohar is highlighting the importance of actively seeking peace and reconciliation within our most intimate relationships, regardless of gender. It’s about nurturing connection, expressing love, and repairing any damage that may have occurred during the week.

It's a powerful reminder that Shabbat is more than just a day of rest. It's a sacred opportunity to cultivate peace, love, and connection in our lives. So, as Shabbat approaches, let's ask ourselves: What can we do to bring more appeasement, more understanding, more love into our relationships? What "additional words" can we offer to those we cherish most? Maybe that's the truest way to truly welcome the Sabbath Queen.