Shalom Aleijem

The song 'Shalom Aleijem,' performed by Susana Allen, is a traditional Jewish hymn often sung during the beginning of the Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest. The title translates to 'Peace be upon you,' and the song is a greeting to the angels who are believed to accompany a person home on the eve of the Shabbat. The lyrics are a series of Hebrew phrases that welcome, bless, and bid farewell to these angels of peace.

The repetition of the phrase 'malajei hasharet, malajei elion,' which means 'angels of service, angels on high,' emphasizes the sanctity and reverence associated with these celestial beings. The term 'Hakadosh baruj hu' refers to 'The Holy One, Blessed be He,' a way of mentioning God without using His name, which is considered sacred and not to be used lightly. The song is structured in a way that it progresses from welcoming the angels, asking for their blessing, and then respectfully seeing them off.

Susana Allen's rendition of 'Shalom Aleijem' likely maintains the traditional melody and is imbued with a sense of spirituality and cultural heritage. The song is not just a ritualistic chant but a heartfelt invocation for peace and divine presence in the home and life of the faithful. It reflects a deep-seated tradition of hospitality, reverence, and a desire for a harmonious existence.