Towards the end of Birkat Hamazon, we recite the verse, “Magdil Yeshu’ot Malko”. On Shabbat and Yom Tov, however, we recite instead the verse, “Migdol Yeshu’ot Malko.” Some Rabbis explained that this change is made because David wrote the verse, “Magdil Yeshu’ot” before he became king, and the verse, “Migdol Yeshu’ot” after he became king. As such, the phrase “Migdol Yeshu’ot” is associated with royalty, and it is therefore appropriate to recite this verse on Shabbat and Yom Tov, which are “kings” in relation to ordinary weekdays. “Migdol” is recited on Col Hamoed and Rosh Chodesh, as well. The Ben Ish Chai writes that “Migdol” should be recited even at the Melaveh Malka meal eaten on Motzei Shabbat, particularly if the meal is eaten within four hours of the end of Shabbat. Even though the meal is eaten after Shabbat, it is nevertheless associated with Shabbat, and so it is appropriate to recite “Migdol” in Birkat Hamazon after this meal. The Ben Ish Chai also rules that “Migdol” is recited on Purim, because there is a special “He’ara” (spiritual “illumination”) on this day. It is also recited in Birkat Hamazon at the feast celebrating a Brit Mila. The Poskim say that “Migdol” should be recited at a Siyum (celebration of the completion of a tractate of the Talmud), as well.
By Rabbi Eli Mansour
When is the Word “Magdil” in Birkat Hamazon Replaced With “Migdol”
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