Shabbat: The Day of “No” or Day of “Yes”

Why do Jews step away from phones, work, cooking, driving, and electricity every week for 25 hours? Shabbat isn’t just a day of rest. It’s a weekly break from the noise of everyday life and a reminder of creation, freedom, family, community, and what really matters. From challah shopping in Jerusalem to the deeper meaning behind the rules, this video explores why Shabbat has endured for thousands of years. 

Big Ideas

1. Jews celebrate Shabbat each week as a way to emulate God, who rested following the six days of creation.
2. On Shabbat, Jews refrain from doing 39 distinct types of work that were involved in building the Mishkan (Tabernacle).
3. Shabbat allows Jews time to take a break from the hustle of everyday life so they can spend time with family, relax, reflect, and worship.

Essential Questions

1. How can one meaningfully celebrate Shabbat?
2. What does it mean to refrain from “work” on Shabbat?
3. What can one do in order to take a break from the busy week and relax?