The Sabbath

The Jewish Sabbath is a special day of the week that is observed by Jewish people from Friday evening to Saturday evening. It's a time when families come together, rest, and take a break from their regular activities.

On Friday evening, as the sun sets, Jewish families gather to celebrate the beginning of Shabbat. They often light candles and say a special blessing. This is a way of marking the start of the Sabbath and creating a peaceful and holy atmosphere in the home.

During Shabbat, there are certain rules and traditions that Jewish people follow. One of the important rules is to refrain from doing any work. This means no homework, no chores, and no cooking. Instead, it's a time to relax, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy activities that bring joy and peace.

Jewish families often have a special meal on Friday night called the Shabbat dinner. They eat delicious food, such as challah (a special braided bread), chicken soup, and other traditional dishes. It's a time to come together, share stories, and enjoy each other's company.

On Saturday, the day continues with more rest and family time. Many people go to the synagogue, which is a place of worship for Jewish people. They participate in prayers and listen to readings from the Torah, which is the sacred Jewish scripture.

Throughout the day, there are additional prayers and rituals that are observed. For example, there is a special blessing over wine called Kiddush, and a blessing over bread called Hamotzi. These rituals help to make the Sabbath feel special and unique.

As Saturday evening approaches and the sun sets, the Sabbath comes to an end. Jewish families say a special prayer called Havdalah, which marks the separation between the Sabbath and the rest of the week. It's a way of saying goodbye to the Sabbath and welcoming the new week ahead.

The Jewish Sabbath is a time for rest, reflection, and connection with family and community. It's a day when Jewish people pause from their regular routines and focus on things that are important to them. It's a special time to recharge and appreciate the blessings in life

Y7 Judaism

The Sabbath (Shabbat)