“A Day Unlike Any Other”: Tal Segev’s Personal Connection to Shabbat

A Day of Holiness and Healing

What does Shabbat mean to you?
"To me, Shabbat is a sacred day like no other. It’s a time to bring hearts together. A day of unity with family and loved ones. A day of reflection and spiritual clarity. More than anything, Shabbat has become my personal tikkun (spiritual repair). In the past, I didn’t view it with the same reverence, but today it’s the most holy part of my week. It’s a time to step away from the noise, to pray, to read words of Torah, and to connect with the ‘Beloved of days,’ an eternal covenant with our Father, our King."

Family, Simplicity, and Spiritual Focus

What’s your typical Shabbat schedule?
"It starts with Kiddush and the blessing over the challah, surrounded by family. My father shares a Dvar Torah, and the next day we’re all together—my wife, our five children, and me—focusing on each child’s needs. Shabbat gives us the space to really be present in a way we often can’t during the week."

Where do you usually pray on Shabbat?
"I usually pray at home. I light the Shabbat candles with simple, heartfelt words and ask Hashem mostly for health and the strength to fulfill His will with joy."

Do you have a favorite Shabbat song?
"‘Lecha Dodi’ holds a special place in my heart."

Sweet Traditions and Spiritual Shifts

Who would you like to host, or be hosted by, for Shabbat?
"I would love to spend a Shabbat with a hidden tzaddik (righteous man), someone who lives with simplicity and moral clarity. As for hosting, I’m always happy to welcome anyone, especially those unfamiliar with Shabbat. I’m still learning myself, and I’d be honored to share whatever I can."

What makes your Shabbat different from the rest of the week?
"One thing I do is wear special white clothing and shoes that I don’t wear during the week. It helps me feel the change. I try to say more Tehillim (Psalms), read specific chapters, and learn from books I reserve just for Shabbat. On Friday night, I give my wife and children a chocolate or a chocolate-filled pastry. It's my favorite treat, and I want the sweetness of Shabbat to begin on a joyful note."

What’s the first thing you do after Shabbat ends?
"I make Havdalah (a ceremony that marks the end of Shabbat) and then turn to my wife and kids with a warm 'Shavua Tov' (a traditional greeting for Saturday night that means "Have a good week") to start the new week.