Ways of Jewish living - EdexcelShabbat

Shabbat is considered a day of rest for Jews. It originates from the Creation story, as told in Genesis, which says that God rested on the seventh day after creating the world. This idea is also found in the book of Exodus:

The day also connects Jews to their ancestors who were in slavery. Refraining from work on Shabbat is a sign of freedom for Jews.

On Shabbat, Jews are forbidden by Jewish law from taking part in several categories of work. These include creating or extinguishing fire, writing, and repairing things. Many Jews will also refrain from all other kinds of work.

Shabbat in the home

Shabbat begins on Friday evening at sunset and ends at sunset the following evening.

Celebration of Shabbat begins in the home:

• The house is cleaned thoroughly before sunset on Friday. As no work can be done during Shabbat, all food required is cooked in advance.
• Shabbat is welcomed in the home with the lighting of candles. This is usually done by the mother of the home. She says a blessing while she covers her eyes.
• There is a further blessing by the father, known as the Kiddush.
• Special plaited bread, known as challah, is eaten.
• There is another meal to celebrate the end of Shabbat. At this meal, the Havdalah blessing is said.

Shabbat in the synagogue

During Shabbat, there are three main services that take place in the synagogue. Most Jews attend these services.