Gedolim Call for Chizuk in Shemiras Shabbos

Klal Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael is preparing for a special chizuk in shemiras Shabbos as a zechus for the three bachurim who were kidnapped one week ago. Gedolei Yisrael have called for the tzibbur to take upon themselves a range of kabbalos at least this week on behalf of Yaakov Naftali ben Rachel Devorah, Gilad Michael ben Bat Galim and Eyal ben Iris Teshurah.

A call by Hagaon Harav Aharon Leib Steinman, shlita, was joined by other Gedolim and Rabbanim to gather in shuls for an hour of limud haTorah before Shabbos. They noted that now that it is summer, and Shabbos comes in late, there is ample time to get ready for Shabbos early and to devote the time for Torah learning b’rabbim.

Likewise, thousands of
Jewish women will heed a call by Hagaon Harav Chaim Kanievsky, shlita, to finish all  preparations and light Shabbos candles earlier than usual, utilizing the time after candle lighting to recite Tehillim. (It should be noted that Shabbos candles should not be lit too early, a posek should be consulted as to the earliest time Shabbos candles can be lit.)

Harav Kanievsky issued the call during a visit by Gilad Sha’er’s grandfather earlier this week. The Rav said that the men should strengthen their study of the practical halachos of Shemittah and the women should greet Shabbos earlier than usual.

Yesterday, the parents and family of Eyal Yifrach visited the mekubal Harav David Abuchatzeira, shlita. The Rav asked that the family publicize a call to all of Am Yisrael to light Shabbos candles, and “b’ezras Hashem they will see yeshuos,” the Rav said.

Kiruv organizations such as Lev L’Achim and Hidabroot launched special initiatives directed at those who are not yet Torah observant, asking that they undertake to keep Shabbos in accordance with halachah, at least this week, as a zechus for the boys, whose plight has touched the hearts of Jews across the spectrum. Chazal say that if all of Am Yisrael will observe two Shabbosos, they will be immediately redeemed; hopefully the answer to this call will bring redemption at least to these three Jewish souls.

This article appeared in print on page 1 of the June 20th, 2014 edition of Hamodia.