Rabbi Dr. Sharon Shalom, the founder and director of the International Center for the Study of Ethiopian Jewry at Ono Academic College, recently wrote an article in the “Shabbaton” newspaper, entitled “What Is the Difference Between B’ezrat Hashem and Baruch Hashem?”
In this new piece, Rabbi Shalom draws on his experiences guiding visitors in Ethiopia to explore why communities living in deep material poverty often radiate profound joy. He describes how Ethiopians answer the simple question “How are you?” with Alena—“I am here”—or with phrases meaning “I thank God,” revealing a spiritual worldview rooted not in control but in gratitude, presence, and inner calm.

Rabbi Shalom explains, through a distinction cited from Prof. Avi Sagi, the phrases used by Rabbiic Jews to respond to a question of how they are. “B’ezrat Hashem/With God’s help” expresses a belief that God actively intervenes to change events, while “Baruch Hashem/Blessed be God” expresses thanks for the world as it already exists, along with the human responsibility to care for it. These two expressions reflect different religious approaches: one centered on divine action in history, the other on human partnership and appreciation.

Ethiopian Jewish tradition, he argues, uniquely holds both truths together. Just as modern life distinguishes between standard of living and quality of life, Ethiopian thought distinguishes between the “level” of one’s faith and its “quality.” Their theology does not attach spiritual meaning to material wealth. Instead, it emphasizes hope over fantasy, acceptance over control, and gratitude over anxiety.

Joy, he writes, emerges not from dreaming about what could be, but from giving thanks for what already is. Ethiopian Jews have long understood that the same place in the heart that feels lack also feels grace—and that both are part of a shared experience of God’s presence in the world.

The original article in Hebrew can be read here: https://shabaton1.co.il/?p=44262