Celebrities Join "Two Sabbaths" Initiative to Foster Unity
A growing number of Israeli public figures, including media personalities, singers, athletes, and creators, are joining the "Two Sabbaths" initiative, which encourages Israelis to observe two Sabbaths at the start of the Jewish new year. The initiative aims to connect people from all sectors of society by dedicating the Sabbath to family, prayer, connection, and the Jewish people, urging participants to disconnect from phones and daily routines.
Notable figures participating include Tzvi Yechezkel, Eliraz Sade, Bar Kupferman, Eyal Golasa, Ben Sahar, Guy Haimov, Ron Shoval, Yaron Ilan, Hadas Hertz, Daniel Weinrib, Moran Koren, and Golan Azulai. They emphasize the importance of pausing the noise of everyday life to focus on what truly matters.
Journalist Tzvi Yechezkel shared his experience meeting young people who observed the Sabbath for the first time and described it as "paradise," calling it the essence of being Jewish. Actress Daniel Weinrib described the Sabbath as a "disconnect that connects," allowing her to focus on herself and God, and to pray for prosperity, health, and the safety of security forces.
Bar Kupferman, a former hostage, shared his personal connection to the initiative, having committed to observing two Sabbaths while in captivity, believing it contributed to his release. He views "Shabbat Shuva," the Sabbath before Yom Kippur, as a special time for closeness to God and the fulfillment of prayers.
Other participants, like former national team goalkeeper Guy Haimov and presenter Eliraz Sade, highlighted the Sabbath as a unifying force amidst societal divisions, urging Israelis to come together as one nation. Footballer Eyal Golasa, Ben Sahar, and singer Ron Shoval also joined the call to observe the upcoming Sabbath for the sake of soldiers, national security, and the Jewish people. Broadcaster Yaron Ilan added the dimension of unconditional love and unity.
The initiative's final Sabbath, "Shabbat Shuva," is approaching before Yom Kippur. Participants, regardless of their regular observance, share a common message: to pause their phones and routines for one day to embrace family, rest, prayer, and a sense of togetherness.
