“REST FROM CREATION”
The Sabbath (שבת, Shabbat) is a day commemorating G-d's rest on the seventh day after the creation of the world, as described in the Book of Genesis. Sabbath embodies cessation from work, contemplation, and rejuvenation of the spirit, family, and community bonds.
Shabbat is more than just a day of physical rest; it is a sanctified time for reconnecting with G-d, families, and yourself, stepping away from the mundane aspects of daily life. Setting this day apart from the rest of the week through various observances add to the “holiness” of the Sabbath. These practices are designed to create an atmosphere of peace and joy, distinguishing Shabbat as a sacred pause in the rhythm of the week.
The importance and sanctity of Sabbath is underscored in the Ten Commandments:
"Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work; But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the L-RD thy G-d: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates." (Exodus 20:8-10)
Observing Sabbath is an act of emulating G-d's rest on the seventh day of creation, serving as a weekly reminder and a heavenly testimony of the Divine order of the universe and the special relationship between G-d and His people. It also serves as a weekly rehearsal for the messianic era, a time of peace and Divine presence. In this way, Sabbath is not only a day of rest but also a vision of a perfected world, inspiring individuals and communities to strive for a life of sanctity, harmony, and dedication to Divine will.
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