Children of Tosefet Shabbat: A Miraculous Journey from Heartbreak to Joy

When All Doors Seem Closed

Rabbi Asher Kovalsky shared an astonishing story he heard directly from the couple themselves, Rabbi Y. Cohen and his wife from Bnei Brak. It’s a story so extraordinary, it seems impossible. But when heard firsthand from the people involved, the truth is undeniable.

For years, Rabbi Cohen and his wife waited for a child. The pain of infertility is indescribable, especially over many long, uncertain years. They did everything humanly possible and turned the world upside down with medical efforts, spiritual omens, and heartfelt prayers. And still, no child.

Then came the night of Tisha B’Av 5771, a day already steeped in national mourning. That night, they received a personal heartbreak. A top fertility specialist called with devastating news: “Based on your current medical data,” he said gently, “I’m sorry… but I don’t bring good news. Naturally speaking, nothing seems promising.”

There was silence on the line; a stunned, crushing silence. The doctor added quietly, “I’m sorry. I’m here for you. Be strong.”

The weeks that followed were filled with emotional turmoil. The couple clung to their emunah (faith), reaffirming their belief that Hashem could overturn any decree, even when logic screamed otherwise.

A Segulah (Spiritual Omen) That Changed Everything

A few weeks later, a small pamphlet unexpectedly came into their hands. It discussed the spiritual power of Tosefet Shabbat, accepting Shabbat early. Citing the teachings of the Arizal and other great sages, it described Tosefet Shabbat as a powerful segulah (spiritual remedy) for those waiting for children. The promise was clear: anyone who welcomes Shabbat early and encourages others to do so will merit miraculous blessings.

The couple felt as if the pamphlet had landed in their hands straight from Heaven. Though the odds seemed hopeless, they decided to try.

They sat down together and made a practical plan. “Starting this week,” they wrote and posted on their fridge, “grocery shopping moves to Wednesday. Cleaning on Thursday. Major cooking on Thursday night. Friday is only for final touches.” Their goal was to be fully ready for Shabbat early, calmly, and joyfully.

That first Friday night, they experienced something new, true peace. The tranquility before candle lighting, the serenity as Shabbat entered, brought with it spiritual elevation. As Mrs. Cohen lit candles, her prayer came from the depths of her soul: “May I merit to raise children and grandchildren who are wise and righteous, who love Hashem.”

After two weeks, the couple took the next step and began spreading the message. On the 16th of Elul, 5771, they published a newspaper ad sharing quotes from leading sages about the power of Tosefet Shabbat. The impact of the ad on the public remains unknown. But what it did for the couple is clear.

Exactly one year later, on the 16th of Elul, 5772, Rabbi Cohen stood beside the sandak at his son’s bris, overwhelmed with emotion as he recited the blessing: “Baruch Atah… to bring him into the covenant of Avraham Avinu.” The boy’s name? Avraham.

A Second Miracle and a Lasting Legacy

The couple’s joy knew no bounds, but their gratitude didn’t stop there. The wife remembered the promise she had made during her struggle: to publicize the miracle if she merited it. True to her word, on the 10th of Kislev, 5774, when baby Avraham was just over a year old, she published a second ad. This time, she told their story. She described the pain, the promise, the segulah, and the indescribable blessing they received.

In that ad, she encouraged others who were waiting for a salvation to try Tosefet Shabbat, welcome Shabbat early, and inspire others to do the same.

One year to the day after that second ad, on the 10th of Kislev, 5775, the couple once again held a miracle in their arms. This time, a baby girl.

They named her Ayala.

Today, the happy mother embraces Avraham and Ayala. Her heart overflows with gratitude, and she constantly praises Hashem. “Children of Tosefet Shabbat,” she says again and again. “They’re children of Tosefet Shabbat!”

The Key That Opens Miraculous Gates

This story is more than emotional; it’s transformative. It reminds us that even when logic fails and the gates seem closed, spiritual acts have the power to change everything. Tosefet Shabbat is more than a beautiful custom; it’s a key. A key that opens the highest gates of mercy.

Whether you’re seeking something for your family, improved health, or livelihood, those extra moments before candle lighting may hold more power than you can imagine.

Try it. Welcome Shabbat early. Invite others to join you. And let the gates of Heaven open wide.

A Hebrew version of this story originally appeared in the newsletter 'Pininei Ein Chamed' and on the 'Dirshu' website.