S P E C I A L S

For the week ending 9 July 2022 / 10 Tammuz 5782

Perek Shira: The Song of the Hen

Become a Supporter Library Library

by Rabbi Shmuel Kraines

The hen says: “He provides sustenance for all flesh, for His kindness is forever.” (Tehillim 136:25)

Every day, the hen lays eggs, each one being compacted with nutrients, similar to how Hashem provides abundant sustenance for His countless creatures on a daily basis. It also expresses this idea in that it is a large, almost flightless bird that is conveniently bred for food. In addition, its unrestrained fruitfulness expresses faith that Hashem will provide for its hatchlings. As a result, it sings with its existence: “He gives food to all flesh, for His kindness is forever.”

Hashem created the world in order to deal with kindness with His creatures. At times, Hashem has to maintain law and order in His world by disciplining us and withholding His bounty and His kindness is hidden. Nevertheless, one act of kindness remains unquestionable at all times: His provision of food for all His creatures, each according to its need and desire, every day. This casts light on other, less obvious, kindnesses. When we thank Hashem for satiating us, and also practice similar benevolence, we too sing this song of His everlasting kindness.

  • Sources: Kenaf Renanah, quoted in Nachalei Devash

*In loving memory of Harav Zeev Shlomo ben Zecharia Leib

© 1995-2024 Ohr Somayach International - All rights reserved.

Articles may be distributed to another person intact without prior permission. We also encourage you to include this material in other publications, such as synagogue or school newsletters. Hardcopy or electronic. However, we ask that you contact us beforehand for permission in advance at [email protected] and credit for the source as Ohr Somayach Institutions www.ohr.edu

« Back to S P E C I A L S

Ohr Somayach International is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation (letter on file) EIN 13-3503155 and your donation is tax deductable.