In Judaism, Shabbat, often referred to as the Sabbath, is the seventh day of the week on which no work is allowed. The term 'Shabbat' comes from the Hebrew word 'shevet', which means 'to rest' or 'to stop'. It is a central and sacred day celebrated from Friday evening at sunset to Saturday evening at nightfall.
Here are some important facts about Shabbat:
Biblical origin of Shabbat
The observance of Shabbat is based on the biblical creation story in the book of Genesis: God needed six days to create the world and rested on the seventh.
The observance of Shabbat is enshrined in the Ten Commandments, which Moses received on Mount Sinai and which are recorded in the Torah. They are considered a cornerstone of Jewish belief and practice.
day of rest
Shabbat is a day of rest and spiritual rejuvenation. On the Sabbath and religious holidays, observant Jews are not allowed to cook, turn on lights, use electrical appliances, drive cars or use buses, trains, ships or planes. They also refrain from any form of creative activity on these days. It is a time of reflection, prayer and time with family and community.
Preparations for Shabbat
Preparations for Shabbat begin before sunset on Friday. This includes preparing special meals, cleaning the house or, nowadays, programming the controls for home electronics. For example, some households set their light switches so that lamps turn on and off on Shabbat without human intervention.
Beginning and end of Shabbat
The evening candle lighting on Friday marks the beginning of Shabbat. Traditionally, two candles are lit to symbolize the two commandments and to remember the Sabbath.
At the end of Shabbat, on Saturday evening, a ceremony called Havdalah is performed, marking the separation between the holy day and the rest of the week. These include blessings over wine, spices and a multi-flame candle. The new week begins with Havdalah.
Synagogue visit
Devout Jews attend synagogue on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. Weekly Shabbat services include prayers, Torah readings, and sermons.
Shabbat meal and kiddush
At the beginning of the meal on Friday evening, a special blessing is said over a cup of wine or grape juice. Kiddush called. To eat on Shabbat there is a special braided bread, the challah (here is a recipe: Challah baking). It is customary to have at least two loaves of challah on the table during the Shabbat meal.
Time for community and family:
On Shabbat, family and community bonds are intended to be strengthened. It is common for families to gather at meals and study Torah or engage in recreational activities together.
Spiritual meaning
Shabbat is not only a time for physical rest, but also a time for spiritual reflection and connection with G*d. It is considered a foretaste of the world to come, a foretaste of the peace and harmony that will reign in the messianic era.
