Sambatyon - Motty Ilowitz & Shulem Lemmer

The Sambatyon isn’t the average river. It’s a wall of chaos, raging six days a week with stones, daring anyone to try and cross it.

And still… they crossed it.

First came Reb Meir, a chazzan. His town was under threat, and they needed someone competent to help. He crossed the Sambatyon to summon Reb Don, who could stand up to the ruler’s challenge.

But before Reb Don headed out, they realized something: Crossing thus far, on Shabbos, while the waters were calm, had been permitted; it was pikuach nefesh. But crossing back wouldn’t be. So each would remain stranded on the far side of where they began.

Reb Meir wrote a poem “Akdamus”, and handed it to Reb Don to bring back for the people of his town, whom he would never see again.

Reb Don crossed and defended Torah. And like Reb Meir, he never returned.

Every person has their own “Sambatyon”, something that feels impossible, uncrossable. Yet, out of everyone, you’re chosen and capable to carry out your part. Even if it takes walking through stormy seas.

This Shavuos, as we say “Akdamus”, may we find the strength to cross our own seas and receive all the goodness waiting on the other side.

Credits:
Performed by: Motty Ilowitz & Shulem Lemmer
Composed & Written by: Motty Ilowitz
Music by: Binyomin Schlesinger @ TheYiddishNote
Video Produced by: Power On Studios
Vocals recorder at: BYG Studios
Thumbnail: Pinpoint Media