Blog
Creation
According to the Torah, God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day. This seventh day thus became a day of rest and was given special significance within Judaism. That is why every seventh day of the week is observed as Shabbat, the weekly day of rest. Shabbat is not only about refraining from work, but also about taking time for reflection, prayer, family and faith.
Friday Evening to Saturday Evening
Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, begins on Friday evening before sunset and ends on Saturday evening after sunset. It is one of the most important weekly observances in Judaism. During Shabbat, the hustle and bustle of the working week is consciously set aside, creating time for rest, family, community and a connection with God.
Lighting the Shabbat Candles
On Friday evening, Shabbat candles are traditionally lit, usually by the woman of the household. Of course, someone else can also take on this role. In many families, the table is already beautifully set and everything is prepared for the Shabbat meal. The candles are generally lit before sunset and mark the beginning of Shabbat. The lighting is accompanied by a blessing and symbolizes the transition from the ordinary working week to the rest and holiness of Shabbat. After the candles have been lit, the family continues with the Shabbat celebration. Often, the man of the household returns from the synagogue, after which the family meal begins.
Kiddush
An important part of Friday evening is Kiddush. This is a prayer that sanctifies Shabbat and distinguishes it from the other days of the week. Kiddush is traditionally recited over a cup of wine or grape juice. During the Shabbat meal, this is a moment to reflect on the special meaning of the day. It is an opportunity to express gratitude and consciously make time for faith, family and togetherness.
No Work and Electricity
During Shabbat, observant Jews refrain from certain forms of work. These rules are based on Jewish religious tradition and include various activities that are not carried out during Shabbat. For many traditionally observant Jews, this means, among other things, not cooking, writing or using electrical devices. Instead, the focus is on rest, prayer, study, family and community. The way Shabbat is observed can vary between Jewish communities and individuals.
Gatherings
Many synagogues hold special services on Friday evening and Saturday morning. Family members and friends also often come together for a Shabbat meal. Jewish communities regularly organize communal meals and other activities as well. These gatherings strengthen a sense of connection and highlight the importance of community within Judaism.
A Time for Reflection
Shabbat is also a time for reflection and spiritual growth. Many Jews use this time to study the Torah and other religious texts, pray and reflect on their relationship with God and the world around them. By consciously stepping away from the demands of everyday life, there is room for rest, reflection and spiritual depth.
Unique Traditions
Alongside the established customs, many Jewish families have their own traditions surrounding Shabbat. These might include special dishes, family rituals, songs or games. Such customs are often passed down from one generation to the next. For many families, these personal traditions are an important part of their identity and create a strong sense of connection within the family.
In Summary
Shabbat is a weekly day of rest centered around reflection, faith, family and community. From lighting the Shabbat candles and reciting Kiddush to sharing a meal and taking time to rest, Shabbat is intentionally set apart from the busyness of the rest of the week. For Jews around the world, Shabbat is a special opportunity to pause and reflect on what truly matters and to strengthen their connection with God, family and community.
As a native-born Israeli, Nati is happy to tell you more about the meaning of Shabbat and how this special day is observed in Israel and within Jewish communities.
For at home
With Shabbat Candles, you have everything you need to welcome Shabbat on Friday evening by lighting the candles.
Barkan 7th Day Sacramental (Kinor) is a sweet red wine from Israel and a fitting choice for Kiddush, the blessing over wine that marks the beginning of Shabbat.
Goldstar Dark Lager Beer is also a well-known Israeli product to enjoy at home during Shabbat. Beer is not part of Kiddush, but it can of course be enjoyed with a meal or at another time during Shabbat.
