From Nightclubs to Separate Events: "When I Told People I Stopped Working on Shabbat - They Didn't Believe Me"

The moment he decided not to perform on Shabbat is a memorable and ambivalent moment in Tzafrir Shukron's life. On one hand, the decision brought internal peace, but the surrounding reactions made him wish he could disappear.

Until then, he was a successful DJ, performing at the most prestigious clubs across the country. Many of his performances occurred on Shabbat, and he was regularly invited to events. After deciding to stop performing on Shabbat, responses varied greatly. 'I received supportive feedback, but also derogatory reactions,' he recalls, 'Some supported my decision, while others tried to dissuade me, arguing I was making a mistake. The dismissive comments were the hardest, but today, I am at peace and unconcerned with others' opinions.'

Seeking Closeness

Tzafrir Shukron, 45, was born in Safed and raised in Kiryat Shmona, yet he DJed all over the country. Since childhood, he has been involved in music and became a successful DJ in clubs right after his military service. Initially working for others, he became an independent DJ in celebrations and events since 1987. Three years ago, a significant change occurred: he decided to strengthen his faith and return to religious observance, drastically transforming his life.

Why does a person wake up one day and decide to return to religious observance?

"For me, this process happened in two phases," Tzafrir explains. "The first was several years ago when I began to embrace Judaism out of curiosity and love. It wasn't strange, since I loved tradition and always had a connection with religious relatives. I remember my first Shabbat observance was challenging. I was sure I'd fail at every moment... My phone kept ringing, and it was hard not to answer. But I managed and was thrilled. The problem was the more I drew closer, the more my wife distanced herself. It was troubling for her, and she struggled with my changes. Eventually, I paused my process to maintain our marital harmony, even though I aimed for full observance. A few years later, a significant change occurred: my wife's desire to embrace religious life before our youngest son's birth changed everything."

How did you feel about that?

"It was a great joy, but I was also afraid of being disappointed. I told her I was scared to rekindle my connection only to find out she wasn't serious. I decided to wait and see her commitment before advancing my own."

What happened in the end?

"She understood and moved forward. Witnessing her embrace modesty, Shabbat observance, and kashrut inspired me. I couldn't remain inactive, and I followed her lead."

Not Working on Shabbat

Next, it became clear to Tzafrir what he had to do. "I decided to fully observe Shabbat, which meant no performances. It was a significant sacrifice since Shabbat was my busiest day. I was often invited to parties in kibbutzim and various clubs. This meant sacrificing a substantial income. But from the moment I decided, I adhered. When people called to book me for Shabbat, I said, "I've stopped working on Shabbat; I'm available on other days." They were shocked, especially long-time clients. It was unexpected for them."

Alongside this career change, Tzafrir altered his entire family lifestyle. "We began living differently. We faced challenges but also found love and fulfillment, and a strong desire to learn and progress. We continue to learn and take on new commitments."

I'm sure not everything was easy. Can you share a particular challenge you faced?

"Nothing was easy, that's clear. My biggest struggle remains that my eldest son, at 14, is not in a religious framework. In contrast, my three-year-old son is in a boys-only kindergarten and will continue in a religious education. Watching him bless and pray fills us with pride. We often contemplate how wonderful it would have been to grow up religious. Personally, I have my ups and downs. On tough days, I remind myself to take steps back to advance. My aspirations are high, and I know precisely what I aim for."

The Decision: Only Separate Events

Tzafrir soon realized his commitment extended beyond avoiding Shabbat performances; he also wanted to perform only at separate events. This was a profound decision, as most of his previous bookings were not segregated.

Did you immediately stop performing at mixed events?

"From deciding to stop until it happened took seven months. I couldn't stop immediately due to existing contracts I had to honor. Performing at mixed events felt uncomfortable, but I had to deliver. My last mixed event was for a close friend. The excitement of finishing that event, knowing I'd only work in holiness henceforth, was immense. *Baruch Hashem*, I adhere strictly to this choice. Although invitations are fewer, I know providence comes from heaven, and I strive to ensure my efforts are pure."

You must have adapted your music and event content. Did you have to learn it all anew?

"Yes and no," he replies, "I needed to deepen my understanding of separate events, as they differ from mixed ones. Separate events often include speeches, tractate completions, and more, not just music. Additionally, the music varies, with many Hasidic songs. However, because I previously performed at some separate events, I was familiar with the setting. Furthermore, I believe my past allows me to offer a higher level of service unknown to the observant audience. I bring my DJ skills and radio hosting experience to this sacred work."

Aiming High

How did you feel about singer Motti Steinmetz refusing to perform for a mixed audience?

"I felt solidarity. I understand his position deeply. I wish I could encourage him. As music professionals, we mustn't compromise and perform before mixed audiences, despite the challenges. Who better than me knows this?"

What gives you strength during such trials?

"My wife," he answers immediately, "She strengthens me. Her dedication to attending lessons and lectures inspires me. On days when I'm weak, she encourages me. If I say, 'I'm tired, I'll pray *Mincha* later,' she reminds me not to delay as it might not happen. We support each other in this journey, believing our mutual desire will lead us ever higher."

Tzafrir's contact number is 054-7379197