and shook his head as he gazed at the long shadow which imitated his movements; then, looking heavenwards, he repeated the text usually said on awakening:
"I thank thee, O living and eternal King! that through thy constant and great favor thou hast given me my soul again." Baruch did not venture to ask the reason of these proceedings; probably Rabbi Aboab had not yet taught him the saying of the Cabbala: "Whoever on the 'night of the sign'[1] sees his full shadow in the moonlight will not die that year."
Rabbi Isaak Loria saw his shadow headless that night, and he died the day before the year ended.
Rabbi Aboab was gay and good-humored that evening when Baruch supped with him. The novice took care to bestow a glance on the fair Sara, from whom the evil spirit had been driven, and who, while she served the meal, shyly stared at the pale youth whose fame had spread through the whole congregation.
Rabbi Aboab sat long at table, and it was late at night when he led Baruch into his study, and taking the Thora from the sacred chest, unrolled it at the place where stood the ten commandments.
Baruch then must lay his right hand thereon, and speak thus:
- ↑ About 27th September.
