Shabbat Is Sacred: A Personal Take on Rest, Family, and Favorite Songs

What does Shabbat mean to you?
"It's the holiest of holies—what kind of question is that? I feel a rush of excitement before Shabbat begins. It's a special day, with a different atmosphere. There's so much involved, preparing for Kiddush, getting ready for the Shabbat meal. It's truly a unique day!"

What does your typical Shabbat schedule look like?
"We're not a religious family, unfortunately, but by lunchtime the kids are all home together. I really try to hold on to those moments as much as I can."

Favorite Shabbat song?
"If I can't pick one of my own songs, then I'd say my Shabbat song is 'Laner U’levasamim' ('To the Candle and Spices'). Also, 'Tzur Mishelo Achalnu' is definitely another that could be my Shabbat song."

Who would you like to spend Shabbat with and who would you host?
"The former president of Israel, Shimon Peres. He was a remarkable man, and he really fascinates me. I’d love to spend a Shabbat at his place. And I'd love to host Rabbi Yaakov Ifargan, 'The X-Ray Rabbi.’”

What’s special about Shabbat in your home?
"The quiet. Do we ever have real peace and quiet during the week? On Shabbat, I’m off my phone. No outings, no school. Everything is calm."

What’s the first thing you do after Shabbat ends?
"If I’m not working, we sit in the garden and count stars—me, my wife, and our young son."