Boi Be Shalom
Peixoto & Maxado
A Spiritual Invitation: The Essence of 'Boi Be Shalom'
Peixoto & Maxado's song 'Boi Be Shalom' is a beautiful and spiritual piece that draws from Jewish liturgical traditions. The lyrics are in Hebrew and translate to 'Come in peace, crown of her husband, also in joy and gladness, among the faithful of the treasured people, come, bride; come, bride; among the faithful of the treasured people, come, bride, Sabbath Queen.' This song is a welcoming hymn for the Sabbath, often sung during the Kabbalat Shabbat service, which is the Jewish prayer service that welcomes the Sabbath on Friday evening.
The phrase 'Boi Be Shalom' translates to 'Come in peace,' and it is a call to the Sabbath, personified as a bride and queen, to enter the homes and hearts of the faithful. The Sabbath is often referred to as a bride in Jewish tradition, symbolizing purity, joy, and a sacred union. The lyrics emphasize joy ('besimchah') and gladness ('uvetzahalah'), highlighting the celebratory nature of the Sabbath, a time of rest and spiritual rejuvenation.
The repetition of 'boi kalah' (come, bride) and 'shabat malkah' (Sabbath Queen) underscores the reverence and anticipation for the Sabbath. It is a time when the Jewish people, referred to as 'am segulah' (treasured people), come together in faith and community. The song encapsulates the essence of welcoming a sacred time, filled with peace, joy, and a sense of belonging. Peixoto & Maxado's rendition brings a contemporary touch to this ancient tradition, making it accessible and resonant for modern listeners.