Welcoming Shabbat with Ana Bekoach Sung by Singer/Songwriter Erez Ariel

Today we're welcoming Shabbat with Ana Bekoach, a beautiful kabbalist song from the regular Kabbalat Shabbat service, sung by Israeli singer/songwriter Erez Ariel.

Known as the 42-letter Name of God, Ana Bekoach is a unique formula built of 42 letters written in seven sentences of six words each. Each of the seven sentences correspond to the seven days of the week, seven specific angels, and to a particular heavenly body. The letters that make up Ana Bekoach are encoded within the first 42 letters of the book of Genesis.

The kabbalists explain that this combination of letters takes us back to the time of Creation, and each time we meditate on a particular sequence, we return to the original uncorrupted energy that built the world. By performing the Ana Bekoach meditation, we enrich our lives with unadulterated spiritual Light and positive energy.

The Hebrew text and English translation appear below the video.

Enjoy, and Shabbat shalom! 

   

 

ANA B'CHO'ACH We, we beg Hashem with the strength and greatness of thy right arm, untangle our knotted fate. Accept your people's song, elevate, elevate and purify us We beg Hashem with the strength and greatness of thy right arm, untangle our knotted fate. Accept your people's song, elevate and purify us Please, heroic one, those who pursue your uniqueness guard them as the pupil of an eye. Bless them, purify them, pity them May your righteousness always reward them. Powerful and Holy One Powerful and Holy One, in goodness lead your flock. Unique and proud one, to your people turn, who remember your holiness. Accept our cries, and hear our screams, oh knower of mysteries. (Blessed is the name of his noble kingdom forever and ever.)