During much of the week we live in a state of tension and lack of harmony, produced by three main areas of conflict:
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Between the human being and the rest of the natural world - because of our need to battle natural forces in order to survive, as well as our often unnecessary interference in and destruction of nature.
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Between one person and another in society - because of the struggle for survival, and competition in the pursuit of a livelihood.
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Between body and soul - because the needs of the body and soul are different, and often are at odds with each other. Fulfillment of physical desires without any other considerations rarely advances one's intellectual and spiritual growth.
Observance of Shabbat enables us to transcend these areas of tension and create a harmonious and peaceful state of being. By refraining from acts of mastering and molding the word, we eliminate the tension between man and nature. We do not engage in commerce, talk about business, or even think about monetary matters on Shabbat. The Shabbat is the only day of the week that we are not in competition with anyone or anything. Finally, by combining the physical pleasures of Shabbat with its spiritual pleasures, and by engaging in pursuits of the mind and soul in a relaxed, dignified atmosphere, we create a situation where both the body and the soul rejoice together.
Shabbat Shalom!
