The last passuk of Birchat Kohanim ends with, “V’yasem Licha Shalom.” The Midrash explains on these words, “Shalom B’Knisasech, Shalom B’Yitziasech, and Shalom Im Kol Adam” — “Peace in your coming, peace in your going, and peace with all humanity.”
The Ktav Sofer explains this Medrash. The Talmud in Meschet Brachot tells us of the interpretations of many dreams. Included in these dreams are the following dreams, which represent peace: the kettle, the river and the bird. The Ktav Sofer says that these three represent three different types of peace. The kettle represents peace in one’s home, where the whole household shares the use of the same kettle. The river represents peace in one’s country, where all citizens share the use of one water source and benefits of the river. The bird symbolizes world peace, like a bird who is not confined to a singular area and can fly wherever their wings take them.
When Hashem gives a Bracha of peace, it is all encompassing. The Midrash says, “Shalom B’Knisasech“, meaning that you will have peace in your coming, within the confines of your home. “Shalom B’Yitziasech“, meaning peace when you go outside and interact with your countrymen. “Shalom Im Kol Adam“, which means that no matter where you are and with whom you are interacting, you shall do so in peace.
As we head off to the summer, may our own lives be filled with an abundance of peace. Peace in our homes, peace in Israel, peace in the world at large. May we always have peace of mind and the confidence that “it was all placed before you in peace” by Hashem.
Have a wonderful Shabbos and stupendous summer!
Rabbi Yoni Schwartz
Recent Comments