Israeli Singer Static Opens Up About Faith: "I Don't Work or Perform on Shabbat"

Israeli singer Static (Liraz Russo) has spoken candidly about his growing connection to Judaism, explaining that while he does not define himself as religious, faith has become a central part of his life. In a recent interview with Makor Rishon, the popular artist shared why he refuses to work or perform on Shabbat and reflected on the spiritual journey that led him there.

"I Don't Perform or Work on Shabbat"

Static made it clear that observing Shabbat is a personal commitment rather than a professional sacrifice.

"I don't perform on Shabbat, and I don't work on Shabbat. Hanan Ben Ari is religious and successful, and there are many religious people who are successful. I believe everyone should do what is right for them."

Although he does not consider himself fully religious, Static explained that many Jewish practices have become part of his everyday life.

"I'm not religious, but on Shabbat I don't perform or work. I put on tefillin, keep kosher, and recite blessings before I eat."

"Being Close to the Creator Is Not a Limitation"

When asked whether these commitments make life more difficult, Static challenged the common perception that religious observance restricts personal freedom.

"We talk about religion as if it's a limitation, but it isn't. Being close to the Creator is the furthest thing from a limitation."

For him, these practices are not burdens but meaningful expressions of his relationship with God.

A Deep Connection to Jewish Roots

Static revealed that he began observing Shabbat more than six years ago and has continued to strengthen his connection to Jewish tradition ever since. He also shared that he performs the ritual handwashing before every meal.

A few months ago, he visited the resting place of the Lubavitcher Rebbe in New York, where he was photographed wearing a kippah and tefillin.

Reflecting on his spiritual journey, he said: "There's something about Judaism that deeply appeals to me — something about the roots. I have separate sinks for meat and dairy, I always wear a Star of David, and behind my ear is tattooed the verse, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' I feel very connected, and I simply love learning."

He added that Judaism has always been part of his upbringing.

"I grew up very close to religion. We went to synagogue on Yom Kippur, celebrated all the holidays, I was called to the Torah at my bar mitzvah, and to this day our family still makes Kiddush together."

The Shabbat That Changed Everything

Static also recalled the extraordinary experience that inspired him to begin keeping Shabbat.

"My rabbi invited me to spend one Shabbat with him," he said. "It sounds like a strange story, but suddenly my fever shot up to around 41°C (106°F). It was unbelievably high. I didn't know what to do, and the medication wasn't helping."

At that moment, he made a personal promise. "I said to myself, 'God, if You help me now, I'll keep this Shabbat because my rabbi asked me to.' Within an hour, my fever broke. From that moment, I said, 'That's it.'"

For Static, that experience became a turning point that transformed a single Shabbat into a lasting commitment and deepened his connection to Jewish faith and tradition.