The Coronavirus outbreak has brought fear, uncertainty, loneliness, isolation, and hardship to the world in recent weeks, with no relief expected anytime soon. Israeli society, in particular, has taken a major hit. Restrictions in Israel are among the toughest in the world, with a large percentage of the population suddenly finding themselves in bidud (quarantine).
Let’s just say we need a good, optimistic anthem right now to help us come together and lighten the mood. And three of Israel’s biggest musical stars have come to the rescue.
Lior Narkis, Omer Adam, and Moshe Peretz have joined forces to bring smiles to Eretz Yisrael. They’ve done so by recording a cover of Meir Banai’s (z”l) “Shiro Shel Shafshaf”, a song of unity and optimism.
“If only we look, if we don’t get scared
“Shiro Shel Shafshaf” (Translation from HebrewSongs.com)
We will show the world that together we stand
Together, yes, to walk together
Yes, to walk together to the light
Together, this is the time to be together
And to love together with you…
I have a feeling
That the road will be difficult.
I see the future, and always think
That the intention gives you faith.”
And if you listen through the very end of the song, you might hear a familiar twist: “V’hakadosh Baruch Hu Matzilenu MiYadam” (and the Holy One, blessed is he, saved us from their hand). These are timeless words from the Passover Hagadah, with a very popular melody composed by Yonatan Razel.
The three artists will donate 20% of the proceeds from this song to those in need. They will donate to organization that provide aid for the upcoming Passover holiday, those that help at-risk youth, and other charities that promote kindness and compassion.
From the press release:
“In spite of all the disagreements and different opinions, in the end we are all brothers and that is the message the artists wanted to convey here: a message of unity.”
Full lyrics and translation are available at HebrewSongs.com.