Angel Michael Collects Torn Shoes from Simchat Torah Dancing
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Angel Michael collects torn shoes from Simchat Torah dancing.
- These remnants are used to create crowns in heaven.
- The story highlights the joy of the Jewish people in celebrating the Torah.
- The account was shared by Rabbi Yitzchak Yishay Benun.
- It is attributed to the Baal Shem Tov.
A story recounted by Rabbi Yitzchak Yishay Benun tells of the Baal Shem Tov's account of what happens in heaven after the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah. After the celebrations and dancing, when the people of Israel were asleep, angels went to sweep the Garden of Eden. During their work, they discovered torn shoes, socks, and soles, which surprised them, as they usually find sacred items like tzitzit and tefillin. The angels asked the angel Michael for an explanation. Michael revealed that these were his 'merchandise,' the remnants from the dancing and Hakafot (circuit processions) of Simchat Torah, specifically shoes torn from the intensity of the dancing in honor of the Torah. The story concludes by noting that while the angel Metatron makes crowns from the prayers of Israel, Michael creates even more beautiful crowns from these worn-out shoes and socks, signifying that while prayers ascend, the joyous dancing of the Jewish people for the Torah also tells a powerful story in heaven.
Read the original at Kikar HaShabbatThe same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.