Rabbi Zamir Cohen Explains the Deep Meaning of Friday Night Child Blessings
Rabbi Zamir Cohen explains the profound spiritual significance of blessing children on Friday night, detailing the history and unity symbolized in the ancient tradition.
The Friday evening tradition of blessing children in Jewish homes carries profound spiritual significance and emotional weight. In a recent video addressing a young couple newly observing Shabbat, Rabbi Zamir Cohen sheds light on the deep meaning behind this cherished custom.
While the blessing is not a mandatory Torah commandment like Kiddush, it holds immense spiritual value. Citing the Ben Ish Chai, Rabbi Cohen explains that the sanctity and elevated atmosphere of Shabbat differ entirely from weekdays, giving blessings uttered on this day exceptional weight.
The custom centers on reciting the ancient blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh, recalling how patriarch Jacob blessed his grandsons. Rabbi Cohen notes that Jacob perceived the pure harmony between the brothers—the younger felt no arrogance about his future greatness, and the older held no jealousy. Consequently, Jacob established this lineage as the eternal benchmark for sibling unity, free from rivalry and resentment.
Combined with the priestly blessing and verses of protection, this weekly ritual offers parents a unique moment to impart profound love, encouragement, and lifelong blessing to their children.
