“AMEN SONGS”: Baruch Haba (Eyal Bitton)

“Baruch Haba” is drawn from Psalm 118:26, which proclaims, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord; we bless you from the house of the Lord.” These words are far more than a simple greeting—they are a declaration of profound spiritual significance. To say “Baruch Haba” is to recognize the sacredness of arrival, whether it is the arrival of a person, an idea, or a moment of transformation. It is an invitation offered with open arms, open hearts, and a readiness to embrace the blessings that come with presence. Welcoming with such intention is itself an act of blessing—it elevates both the one who arrives and the community that receives them. This melody, featured in the YouTube video below, is one I composed during my time as cantor at Beth Jacob Synagogue in Hamilton, Ontario, many years ago.

The connection to Parashat Bo deepens this understanding. In this portion, the Israelites prepare for their first steps out of Egypt, a journey that is not just about physical freedom but also about spiritual and national transformation. Every moment in their exodus is charged with purpose—from marking their doorposts to stepping into the unknown with trust in God. Similarly, “Baruch Haba” isn’t just about welcoming someone into a physical space; it is about recognizing and celebrating the thresholds we all cross in life—moments of transition, growth, and renewal.

In the narrative of Bo, every milestone—from the final plague to the hurried meal of the Passover sacrifice—represents an arrival into something new: freedom, identity, and covenant. Singing “Baruch Haba” allows us to honor these same moments in our own lives. Whether we are welcoming a guest, embracing a new chapter, or stepping into a deeper understanding of faith, we are participating in an ancient act of blessing.

When we sing “Baruch Haba,” we are reminded that every arrival carries with it the potential for transformation. In this sense, the words become more than a welcome—they become an Amen, an affirmation of the blessings found in every step of our journey. Through this simple yet profound phrase, we fulfill our theme: “Amen – Be a Blessing.”