What is Shabbat?
Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath) is the weekly day of rest, running from sunset on Friday to nightfall on Saturday. Rooted in the Torah's account of creation — God rested on the seventh day — it's a day to step back from work and creation, reconnect with family and community, and turn toward what matters. Its rhythms include candle-lighting, festive meals, Kiddush over wine, and time for prayer, study, and rest. Many call Shabbat the foundation of Jewish life — a weekly island of meaning.
What are the customs of Shabbat?
- Candle-lighting before sunset on Friday, welcoming the day.
- Kiddush — a blessing over wine sanctifying the day — and challah (braided bread) at festive meals.
- Rest from creative work (melacha), unplugging from the week's busyness.
- Family, community, and study — Shabbat afternoon is a classic time to learn.
Why is Shabbat so central?
Shabbat is a weekly reset that no other practice provides: a fixed, recurring pause to be present rather than productive. It anchors the Jewish week and the family table — and it's the natural home for the most shareable Jewish learning, the weekly Torah portion and a Shabbat-table conversation.
In short: Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest, Friday sunset to Saturday night — candles, meals, and a weekly pause to reconnect, reflect, and learn.
Make Shabbat a learning highlight with Derekh Learning
Derekh prepares the weekly parsha and a Shabbat-table guide so your Shabbat includes meaningful learning, in a voice that fits your table. Start learning or read how to follow the parsha.
