Shabbat

What is Shabbat and Why Does It Matter?

Shabbat (Hebrew: שַׁבָּת) is Judaism’s day of rest on the seventh day of the week, Saturday. It commemorates the biblical creation and redemption from slavery. But what exactly does this mean in today’s fast-paced world? Is Shabbat just a historical relic or does it hold relevance for modern Jews?

The Origins and Significance of Shabbat

Shabbat begins in the evening of Friday and ends after sundown on Saturday night. Traditionally, three festive meals are eaten: one on Friday evening, a lunch meal on Saturday, and a third later in the afternoon. The evening meal and early afternoon meal typically begin with a blessing called kiddush.

The word Shabbat derives from the Hebrew root ש־ב־ת, meaning ‘ceasing [from work]’ or ‘rest.’ Shabbat is not just a day of rest but also a time to contemplate spiritual aspects of life and spend time with family. The end of Shabbat is marked by a ritual called Havdalah, which separates Shabbat from the rest of the week.

Shabbat’s Historical Context

The Jewish position is that Shabbat originated among the Jewish people, but its origins are unclear to scholars. The first non-Biblical reference to Sabbath is in an ostracon found at Mesad Hashavyahu. In the Hebrew Bible, Sabbath is given special status as a holy day at the beginning of the Torah in Genesis 2:1-3. It is first commanded after The Exodus from Egypt in Exodus 16:26 and 16:29, as well as Exodus 20:8-11, and is also described by prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Amos, and Nehemiah.

Shabbat has three purposes: commemorating God’s creation of the universe, the Israelites’ Exodus and redemption from slavery in ancient Egypt, and a ‘taste’ of Olam Haba (the Messianic Age). Some families light more candles, sometimes in accordance with the number of children.

Shabbat Traditions and Customs

Judaism accords Shabbat the status of a joyous holy day, with many laws giving it precedence over other holidays. It is treated as a ‘bride’ and ‘queen,’ with the Sefer Torah read during services.

Traditions include welcoming Shabbat on Preparation Day (Friday) by bathing, having a haircut, and cleaning the home, with candles lit before sunset. Customs include honoring Shabbat, reciting kiddush over wine, eating three meals, and enjoying Shabbat.

The Laws of Shabbat

Jewish law prohibits certain melakhah (deliberate activity) on Shabbat unless it’s an urgent human or medical need. Categories of prohibited labor include winnowing, selecting, filtering water, picking bones from fish, and making the Tabernacle. The construction of the Tabernacle required specific labors that were necessary for its creation, which included creative activities and those that exercised control over one’s environment.

The term ‘shomer Shabbat’ refers to a person who adheres to Shabbat laws consistently. Orthodox and Conservative authorities have differing opinions on what activities are prohibited during Shabbat. Turning electric devices on or off is often debated, with some considering it a melakhah (forbidden labor). Turning lights off is seen as extinguishing a fire, while turning them on may be considered building or lighting a fire.

Automobiles are completely prohibited on Shabbat for many Conservative authorities, but driving to a synagogue is allowed in emergency situations. A halakhically authorized Shabbat mode can be used on power-operated mobility scooters. Seemingly ‘forbidden’ acts, such as using elevators, may be performed by modifying technology so that no law is actually violated. However, some rabbinical authorities consider these workarounds to be a violation of Shabbat if done by those who are capable of performing the task.

Many observant Jews avoid carrying objects by using an eruv or disguising them as clothing. Shabbat lamps allow for flexible lighting control without breaking Shabbat laws. The Shabbos App aims to enable smartphone use during the Jewish Sabbath, but has faced resistance from some authorities.

The Emergence of Shabbat in Other Religions

In emergencies, saving a human life is prioritized over violating Shabbat laws. Desecration of Shabbat involves violating regulations, such as changing activities from weekday norms or using forbidden labor on Shabbat.

Reform and Reconstructionist Jews may follow different approaches to Shabbat observance, with some emphasizing personal freedom in interpreting work-related activities and others believing that halakhoth are valid but should be applied individually. The Talmud states that preparing food for Shabbat grants one’s heart’s desires.

Jewish denominations encourage activities such as reading Torah, synagogue attendance, socializing at Shabbat meals, singing special songs, having sex with a spouse, and sleeping. Special Shabbatot precede important Jewish holidays.

Shabbat in Other Religions

In other religions, Christians generally do not observe Saturday Sabbath, but some denominations like Seventh-day Adventists do. Samaritans also observe Shabbat. Some hold the biblical sabbath was connected to the New Moon, while others follow the 7-day week based on creation.

Conclusion

Shabbat is more than just a day of rest; it’s a profound ritual that connects Jews with their heritage and spirituality. As we navigate our busy lives, Shabbat offers a chance to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the divine. Whether you’re lighting candles or singing songs, Shabbat reminds us of the importance of balance in life.