In Judaism, Shabbat is considered not merely a day of public or personal rest, but also a sacred sign of the covenant between God and the people of Israel.

Shabbat: A Sacred Covenant of Divine Rest

In Judaism, Shabbat is considered not merely a day of public or personal rest, but also a sacred sign of the covenant between God and the people of Israel. It is celebrated with great festivity because, on this day, the profound spiritual and historical-mythological essence of the Jewish faith is embodied. On one hand, Shabbat is established as a mandatory day of rest—a time granted for rejuvenation, a break from everyday work, and an opportunity to give thanks for the blessings bestowed by the Creator. On the other hand, this day symbolizes the remembrance of pivotal events—the liberation from slavery and the creation of the world. Thus, the celebration of Shabbat takes on a special meaning, emphasizing not only physical rest but also spiritual renewal and reminding us of the divine order inherent in the history of the Jewish people.

As noted in one source, “Shabbat in itself anticipated the existence of Israel and is a reflection of God’s order. In any case, Shabbat was given to Israel as a remembrance of the precious divine liberation from slavery, as well as a reminder of the creation of the world and God’s rest on the seventh day: ‘This is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed’ (Ex. 31:17). Messianic Judaism regards Yeshua as the center of the entire celebration, as He proclaimed Himself ‘Lord of the Sabbath,’ thereby elevating the significance of worship on Shabbat.” (source: link txt, page: 255)

Additionally, a more historically oriented perspective emphasizes that the celebration of Shabbat is not merely an observance of the prohibition against work, but an opportunity to partake in a divine act that recalls the triumph of liberation and the creation of the world. As stated: “The Old Testament festival elevates all those present, from the least to the greatest, making each new generation a participant in the events of the past in which the glory of God was revealed and in which the people themselves were exalted. This is, for example, the meaning of celebrating the Sabbath. The Sabbath is a participation in the divine rest of the seventh day after creation.” (source: link txt, page: 143)

Thus, although the primary purpose of Shabbat as a day of rest and quiet has not changed, its significance has markedly expanded. Shabbat has become an integral festive tradition that honors historical memory, celebrates the covenant with God, and expresses a deep faith in the divine order—imparting it with a joyful and celebratory character.