What traditional practice is observed during the Jewish Sabbath?

The practice of resting and refraining from work from Friday evening to Saturday evening is a fundamental aspect of the Jewish Sabbath, known as Shabbat. This weekly day of rest is rooted in the biblical commandment to observe the Sabbath as a holy day, as outlined in the Torah. The significance lies in the creation story, where God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh. Therefore, this tradition fosters a sense of spiritual reflection, family bonding, and a break from the routine tasks and obligations of the week.

While it is also common to enjoy special meals, light candles, and engage in religious study during Shabbat, the core observance is the cessation of work, which is a hallmark of this sacred time. Devout Jews traditionally prepare in advance for Shabbat to ensure that they can fully disengage from their daily responsibilities and focus on rest, spirituality, and community. The acts of dining with loved ones, candle lighting, and reading religious texts enhance the experience, but they are secondary to the primary commandment of resting on this day.