If Shabbos is a gift from Hashem, do we really need to do anything—or should we just sit back and receive it?

Shabbos is unlike any other day. While Yom Tov’s holiness comes from our mitzvos—our ability to bring down kedusha through action—Shabbos is entirely different. The kedusha of Shabbos comes directly from Hashem. It exists whether or not we recognize it. So what, then, is our role? Do we simply stand by, passive observers of Hashem’s great gift? In this episode, Rabbi Klapper explores the active mitzvah of Zachor es Yom HaShabbos, the fundamental avodah of remembering and recognizing Shabbos. He reveals how the key to experiencing true Shabbos isn’t in creating kedusha, but in opening our hearts and minds to accept it.

But here’s the real challenge: How many of us actually open this gift? Are we like a child who receives a priceless present and spends all day playing with the box? Do we treat Shabbos like a day off, rather than a gateway into Hashem’s presence? Through deep analysis, stories, and practical insights, Rabbi Klapper explains how training our minds to truly remember Shabbos—not just intellectually, but emotionally and spiritually—transforms the entire day. He shares powerful tools to integrate Shabbos-consciousness into our daily lives, from the way we prepare for Shabbos to how we experience it in real time. Join us for a thought-provoking journey into the essence of Shabbos, and discover how even a small shift in perspective can unlock an entirely new level of connection with Hashem.

Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!