Understanding Shabbat
Shabbat (shah-BAHT) means “to rest” or “cessation of labor” and is the basis of the English words "sabbath" and "sabbatical." Shabbat is the most important day of the week; it’s a day when many Jews rest and turn their minds toward prayer and toward the home.
Like all days of the Jewish calendar, Shabbat begins at sundown. Technically, from sundown Friday evening (exactly 18 minutes before sunset) until three stars are visible in a single glance on Saturday night, the Jewish people are at rest spiritually after the week’s labors.
Observance of Shabbat
Shabbat is typically a very happy day, celebrated with special prayers, leisurely meals, Torah study, time with family and friends, and a nap or two! Not all Jews remember and observe Shabbat in the same way. Different branches of Judaism, all of which observe the Sabbath and encourage their members to do likewise, have different customs and levels of observance. The important thing to note is not the differences among Jews and how they choose to observe Shabbat but rather the fact that Shabbat is held in such high esteem by all branches of Judaism.
Preparing for Shabbat
In preparation for Shabbat, the many Jewish people like to put themselves in a “Shabbat state of mind.” Remove all thoughts of work and everyday concerns. Look toward a time of rest, study, and togetherness with family and friends.
As Shabbat begins, the mother of the family will traditionally light two candles, which represent the mitzvot to “remember” and “observe.” Some families choose to light a candle for every person present at the table. The candles may be of any color, but they are usually white. At least eighteen minutes before sunset, the woman of the house lights the candles and then says a blessing. Then, the man of the house recites the Kiddush over the wine. If there is no woman of the house, it is perfectly acceptable for the man of the house to light the candles, and if there is no man to recite the Kiddush, a woman may do this. The family can then greet each other with the words Shabbat Shalom for the Sabbath has begun!
Shabbat Dinner
The Shabbat dinner is an event where you can use your imagination to create an ambiance befitting this special day. Many people use their best china and silverware, have a vase filled with fresh flowers, and use a white tablecloth. In addition, the Shabbat dinner table requires a Kiddush cup, wine or grape juice, challah (special Shabbat bread), a challah plate or board, a challah cover, and candles.
Just before dinner, people wash their hands and recite a blessing over the challah (this blessing is known as the motzi). Another beautiful custom that may take place at the Shabbat dinner table is the parents blessing their children. During dinner, conversation is open to any subject, but it is a time for the family to move beyond the perfunctory small talk that often takes place during a typical evening meal.
Shabbat Blessings
Blessing over Candles:
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech Ha’Olam, Asher Kidshanu B’mitzvotav V’tzivanu L’hadlik Ner Shel Shabbat.
Blessed are You, Eternal One our G-d, Universal Presence, who make us holy with divine commandments and commanded us to kindle Shabbat lights.
Blessing over Wine:
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech Ha’Olam Borei Pri HaGafen.
Blessed are You, Eternal One our G-d, Universal Presence, who creates the fruit of the vine.
Blessing over Bread:
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech Ha’Olam HaMotzi Lechem Min Ha’Aretz.
Blessed are You, Eternal One our G-d, Universal Presence, who brings forth bread from the earth.
Separating from Shabbat
Shabbat ends at nightfall approximately forty minutes after sunset. At this time, the family performs the Havdalah (separation) ceremony. During Havdalah, blessings are made over the wine, a specially woven or braded havdalah candle, and a box called bsamim (box filled with sweet-smelling spices). Each of these objects represents something.
- The wine cup is filled to the brim, expressing hope that the upcoming week will be filled with divine blessings.
- Blazing like a torch, the havdalah candle’s flame signifies light and guidance through life.
- The spices remind the devout to make an effort to bring some of the sweetness of Shabbat into the coming week.
At this time, the family recites the final blessing regarding the division between the consecrated and the worldly, which reflects how the Sabbath is distinct from the other days of the week.
