Shabbat

This section explains Shabbat. Observing Shabbat is one of the Ten Commandments in Judaism, and it holds profound spiritual and cultural significance. It is a day of rest, commemorating the day that God rested after completing the creation of the world, as described in the Book of Genesis.

Shabbat begins on Friday evening at sunset and lasts until Saturday evening at sunset. This sacred day provides an opportunity for family and community togetherness, and Jewish communities around the world attend synagogue services to mark the occasion. It is a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and physical rest.

One of the central principles of Shabbat is the prohibition of work. This includes various tasks such as cooking, writing, and driving, as it is believed that refraining from work honours the sanctity of the day and allows for spiritual focus.

Shabbat for Orthodox Jews

Orthodox Jews adhere closely to traditional practices and observe Shabbat as prescribed by Jewish law. This includes refraining from any work, and it is forbidden to light candles after sunset on Friday. To avoid driving, Orthodox Jews walk to the synagogue to attend services, ensuring that the observance of Shabbat remains true to its sacred intent.

Shabbat for Reform Jews

Reform Jews also observe Shabbat, though they may be more flexible in their practices. While they aim to maintain the core rituals, they may alter the timing of certain aspects of the observance to fit their modern lifestyle. For example, Reform Jews often light candles after sunset, though it may not be at the precise moment when Shabbat officially begins. It is also permissible for Reform Jews to drive to the synagogue if necessary, such as when attending services during Shabbat while on holiday. Reform Judaism generally allows for more flexibility in the observance of Shabbat, with the key focus being on maintaining its spiritual significance rather than adhering strictly to traditional rules.

Shabbat at Home

In Jewish homes, preparation for Shabbat begins before sunset on Friday. The home is tidied, and food is prepared for the evening meal. Two candles are placed on the dining table, symbolising the two commandments related to Shabbat that were given to Moses on Mount Sinai: "Remember" and "Observe" the Sabbath. These candles are an essential part of the Shabbat ritual, marking the beginning of the sacred day.

Also placed on the table are two loaves of challah bread. This represents the manna, the bread-like food that God provided to the Israelites during their journey through the desert after their escape from Egypt.

On Friday evening, the lighting of the candles marks the beginning of Shabbat. Traditionally, the mother of the household will light the candles, covering her eyes before reciting a blessing to welcome in the Shabbat.

After the candles are lit, the family often attends the synagogue for prayers, though the timing of this may vary depending on the synagogue's schedule. In some families, this may occur before their meal, while in others, it may take place after. Once back home, the family gathers around the table for the Shabbat meal. Before the meal begins, blessings are said over the children, and kiddush is recited over a cup of wine to sanctify the day and make it holy. Drinking wine on Shabbat is a way to symbolise the joy and celebration of the occasion.

The challah bread is also blessed, and each person takes a piece, sharing in the sustenance and the spirit of the day. The meal is typically a joyous and peaceful time, with family members enjoying each other’s company, often singing songs, telling religious stories, and reflecting on their faith. The meal may last for several hours, providing a time for relaxation and bonding.

On Saturday, after attending synagogue services, the family may share another meal. The afternoon is often spent studying the Torah, discussing its teachings, and engaging in family activities, including games or quiet reflection.

Shabbat at the Synagogue

In the synagogue, Shabbat begins with prayers on Friday evening. In Orthodox synagogues, these prayers are held at sunset, while in Reform synagogues, the service is typically held at a set time. The service is a celebratory occasion, with hymns, prayers, and psalms known as Kabbalat Shabbat to welcome the Shabbat in a joyful and reverent manner.

On Saturday morning, the main service of the week is held, which includes readings from the Torah and the Nevi’im (Prophets). This is a central moment of communal worship, with the congregation joining together to listen to the sacred texts and reflect on their meaning.

The afternoon service includes another reading from the Torah as well as prayers, before concluding with ma’ariv, the evening prayer. This service is followed by the final ritual of Shabbat, the Havdalah.

Havdalah: Marking the End of Shabbat

After the sun sets on Saturday evening, Shabbat ends with the Havdalah ceremony. This marks the transition from the holiness and rest of Shabbat back to the regular activities of the week.

During Havdalah, blessings are recited over a cup of wine, thanking God for what He has provided. A box of fragrant spices is passed around for everyone to smell. This is a reminder that Shabbat is like the spice of the week, a time of reflection, family, and rejuvenation before the beginning of a new week.

A special Havdalah candle, which typically has several wicks, is lit and blessed. The light from this candle symbolises the return of light into the home after the peaceful and restful time of Shabbat has come to an end.

Shabbat is one of the most important and sacred observances in Judaism, offering a time for rest, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Whether at home or in the synagogue, the rituals and practices surrounding Shabbat help to reinforce the connection between Jews and God, and foster a sense of community and family. Through the lighting of candles, sharing meals, and attending services, Shabbat is a cherished time that allows Jewish individuals and families to pause, rejuvenate, and centre themselves in faith.