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Parashat Metzora is generally read close to Shabbat Hagadol. What is the
                                                                                                                  connection is between parashat Metzora and Shabbat Hagadol? Why is
                                                                                                                  precisely the Shabbat prior to Pesach termed “Shabbat Hagadol”?

                                                                                                                  Shabbat Hagadol is called by this name because of the great miracle that
                                                                                                                  occurred on this day. Although Bnei Yisrael tied the idol of the Egyptians
                                                                                                                  to the foot of their beds, intending to slaughter it, the Egyptians could not
                                                                                                                  harm them. This Shabbat and the miracles that occurred on it were a
                                                                                                                  turning point. They led Bnei Yisrael to seek Hashem’s closeness.

                                                                                                                  Shabbat Hagadol precedes Pesach, since it serves as a spiritual
                                                                                                                  springboard for the chag, whose essence is leaping forward and advancing
                                                                                                                  in Avodat Hashem. The Ben Ish Chai says that the Torah learned on
                                                                                                                  Shabbat is of supreme quality. However, the quality of the study of Torah
                                                                                                                  on Shabbat Hagadol is paramount.                                                                                                                                                              #                                                               26347-EYAL-6
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