The Torah commands that Shabbat and the Holidays must be a time of pleasure. What the Torah is conveying is that not only the soul should derive spiritual pleasure from Shabbat and the Holidays, but the body too should have enjoyment. Moreover, the primary objective of the Mitzvah of “Oneg” (pleasure),is specifically to refine the body.
The natural pleasure of the body is mostly in eating and drinking, the Torah says that the obligation to take pleasure on Shabbat and Holidays is precisely through eating.
It is only in this scenario that the pleasure of Shabbat can truly permeate the body.
On Shabbat and the Holidays, the food we eat is permeated with a higher degree of holiness because it is eaten in a holy context.
Although Shabbat is a very spiritual day, nevertheless H”S wanted the body to experience Shabbat. For parts of the day are dedicated to praying and studying, therefore infusing the body with holiness in very spiritual ways, H”S wanted the body to also experience Shabbat on its own terms and this is why Shabbat is a day of culinary delicacies which are greatly enjoyed.
#shabbatshalom #onegshabbat
Some excerpts taken from “Pause & Affect” JLI Rosh Chodesh Society
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