Shabbat is the Jewish holy day of rest. It offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of life and an opportunity to take a beat and slow down. Like many other religions’ holidays, there are a number of things you can do, and a number of things you’re not allowed to do on Shabbat. Whether you’re new to Judaism or simply interested in reconnecting with Judaism, the traditions of Shabbat can be confusing.
This guide will clearly outline what traditional Judaism prohibits on Shabbat. Keep in mind that Judaism is a spectrum, and each family creates their own rules for the Sabbath. This guide will serve as a starting point. The way you celebrate Shabbat is totally up to you.
Why Shabbat Has Rules About Work
Shabbat began with the creation of the world. God created the world in a single week. For the first 6 days, he focused on creation. On the 7th day, he stopped to rest. To commemorate this, the Jewish people use Shabbat as a time to do their own resting, resetting, and restoration. Shabbat becomes a sanctuary in time, set apart from everyday life.
What is “Work” on Shabbat
The things you are not allowed to do on Shabbat center around the concept of work. On Shabbat, work doesn’t just refer to physical labor, but to all kinds of creation and destruction. Anything that transforms or controls your environment is restricted in order to carve out a place for peace, reflection, and community and protect the experience of rest.
What Jews are Traditionally Not Allowed to Do on Shabbat
Jewish law teaches that there are 39 categories of activities that are prohibited on Shabbat, known as melachot. In ancient times, these activities were associated with building and running the Tabernacle, the original Jewish place of prayer. Today, they’ve been interpreted to more modern activities.
|
Activity |
Traditional Interpretation |
Modern Interpretation |
|
Food production |
Plowing, planting, harvesting, grinding, kneading, cooking, baking |
Cooking, turning on or off stoves |
|
Making clothing |
Shearing, bleaching, dyeing, spinning, weaving |
Knitting, sewing, repairing clothes |
|
Writing and communicating |
Writing, erasing |
Writing, sketching, signing forms |
|
Building and crafting |
Building, demolishing, shaping materials |
Home repairs, assembling furniture |
|
Fire and energy |
Lighting or extinguishing fire |
Turning on or off lights, electronics, cars |
It’s important to remember that Shabbat is not meant to be punishing or prohibitive. Instead, it’s an opportunity to create an intentional space away from the constant work of daily life.
Everyday Examples: What Can’t You Do on Shabbat
So, what does this look like in practice? Let’s review the things you can’t do on Shabbat and why they’re prohibited.
Technology and Electricity
You can’t use phones, computers, TVs, or smart devices on Shabbat, nor can you turn lights or appliances on or off. Doing these things is considered creating fire. Instead, people turn off electronics, use light timers, and use other workarounds.
Cooking and Preparing Food
Cooking, baking, and reheating are prohibited on Shabbat. Again, these activities are related to creating fire. Instead, hot food is prepared before shabbat and kept warm throughout the 24-hour period.
Driving and Transportation
Driving and riding in cars is prohibited on Shabbat. Traditionally, Jewish people live within walking distance of their synagogue so they can still attend services during the Sabbath.
Buying and Paying
Shopping, purchasing, and completing business transactions are not allowed on Shabbat. This removes the financial stress from the day and instead gives the opportunity for relaxation.
Work and Creative Tasks
There’s no writing, crafting, sewing, home repair, gardening, or yard work on Shabbat. Instead, people can read, discuss, learn, and focus on Jewish studies during the holiday.
Household Tasks
There is no cleaning, laundry, or home work during Shabbat. Instead, all cleaning and household tasks are done ahead of time in preparation for the holiday. The home is simply allowed to “be” during Shabbat.
Carrying
According to Jewish law, there’s no carrying bags, keys, or children in public spaces during Shabbat. Because some carrying is necessary, even on Shabbat, Jewish people use a special boundary known as an eruv to redefine “public” space. Everything inside of the eruv is technically considered “private” space, enabling people to carry as long as they’re within the boundaries of the eruv.
How to Bring Shabbat Peace into Your Life
It’s important to remember that, while these practices are considered the traditional way to celebrate Shabbat, observance exists on a spectrum. Each person has the power to determine how they want to observe the holiday and what they can and can’t do on Shabbat.
If you’re interested in bringing Shabbat into your home, it can be easy to begin with a simple Shabbat dinner. All you’ll need is a few Shabbat essentials, like candle sticks, a wine glass, and a challah cover. You’ll say a few simple prayers, share a meal with friends and family, and get a taste of what Shabbat has to offer.
Transition to Shabbat Rest with Oneg Home
Shabbat provides an essential respite from daily life. For the essential items you need to bring Shabbat into your home, shop Oneg Home. We offer everything you need to celebrate in modern design that blends beautifully into your home.
Ready to begin your Shabbat practice?
