Daily Advice, Eliezer Zeytouneh here. Thank you to everyone joining us across all forums. Welcome to itorah.com, where we have our own special series. Let's take a meaningful moment to acknowledge those in the chat and those watching live. Shabbat Shalom to all. We are joined by hundreds of people, Baruch Hashem, who tune in for Daily Advice every day. Today, Rabbi Zitouni will discuss the topic of Zerizut, which is particularly relevant for Shabbat.
So, what is Zerizut? It refers to a sense of urgency. When a person acts with Zerizut, they demonstrate to the world that their actions are important. For example, when a husband wants to impress his wife, he might rush to take out the garbage as soon as she asks. This urgency reflects his respect and desire to help her. The same principle applies to our relationship with Hashem. It is especially crucial as we prepare for Shabbat, as the concept of Kavod Shabbat—the honor of Shabbat—requires us to act with urgency. How do we prepare for Shabbat? What is our level of urgency in our preparations? Do we arrive home just five minutes before candle lighting? That does not demonstrate Zerizut.
Some people may find themselves in situations where they have no choice, but we must ask ourselves: Are we truly unable to prepare, or do we create excuses for ourselves? If it were your son's wedding, would you not make an effort to arrive early? If so, we should exhibit Zerizut in our preparations for Shabbat as well.
Rabbi Zerayim shares a beautiful idea: just as it is important to start a task with Zerizut, it is equally important to finish it with the same urgency. It is not enough to begin a task with enthusiasm; one must also complete it with that same sense of urgency. This is what Zerizut is about—maintaining that urgency throughout the entire process. It is vital to show the Creator how important our actions are by performing them with urgency.
We know there is a mitzvah to run to the synagogue and to the study hall when it is time to pray. However, running from home to the synagogue does not fulfill this mitzvah. The mitzvah to run applies when you are close to the synagogue. When you are near the mitzvah, that is when you should start running. This demonstrates the importance of the action. Zerizut is not only about going to the synagogue; it is also about inspiring oneself and others. When I run to the synagogue, I may inspire someone else who is walking slowly to pick up their pace as well.
Now, what if I do not feel a sense of urgency? What if I am relaxed and calm, and I do not want to run? If I act without feeling it, is that genuine? The answer is yes; you should still run. Even if it feels forced, the external action can inspire internal feelings. This principle is echoed in the teachings of the Mesilat Yesharim: act with urgency anyway. The external actions can ignite the internal emotions. For instance, at a football game, the coach may yell to motivate the players. This is not anger; it is a way to invigorate them. Similarly, when we act with urgency for Borei Olam, we can cultivate a deeper emotional connection.
By taking action, even if it feels insincere at first, we can eventually develop a genuine sense of urgency. When we demonstrate Zerizut in our actions for Borei Olam, He reciprocates. If we run to fulfill our obligations, Borei Olam will run to fulfill our needs as well. He will help us find a good match, grant healing, and provide sustenance. This principle of measure for measure—Mida Keneged Mida—is powerful. The effort we exert for Borei Olam will be met with His abundant blessings. Shabbat Shalom to everyone. Enjoy the day. Shabbat Shalom.