My Journey to Judaism has been filled with new and exciting discoveries. Every week, I learn something for the first time, adopt a new tradition, and grow closer to God, but the most life-changing for me has been Shabbat: the Jewish day of rest. I look forward to this day every week. It’s my time to connect with Adonai, study the Torah, spend time with family, and unplug from the outside world. Shabbat is where I find inner peace. It’s a day to restore and recharge before the coming week.
What exactly is Shabbat?
Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest. In the book of Genesis, God created the earth in 6 days, and on the 7th day, he created “Menuchah” a day where creation would cease and rest would take its place. Chabad.org explains how Shabbat came to be:
“After G‑d took the Children of Israel out of Egypt in the year 2448, He taught them about the Shabbat: working for six days and resting on the seventh. Shabbat is also one of the 10 Commandments that G‑d transmitted at Sinai several weeks after the exodus. Thus, the meaning of Shabbat is that we testify how G‑d created the world and intervened in world affairs when He took His nation out of slavery.”
How Shabbat is Celebrated
A few minutes before sunset on Friday night, just before the start of Shabbat, the women of the house light the candles in the same location where the wine, the Chalah bread, and the Shabbat feast will be served. According to MyJewishLearning.com, once the candles are lit it’s time to say the Shabbat prayer:
“Baruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b’mitzvotav vitzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat.”
“Blessed are You, God, Ruler of the universe, who sanctified us with the commandment of lighting Shabbat candles.”
As Shabbat comes to a close after sunset Saturday night a Havdalah ceremony takes place, which includes a blessing over spices, more wine, and a braided candle specific to Havdalah is lit.
My Personal Shabbat Story
My first Shabbat was at a local Chabad House near my home. After reaching out to the rabbi, I was invited to their Shabbat dinner. The experience was transformational and would forever change the course of my life.
I was mesmerized. There was an overwhelming sense of celebration and tradition. The evening was filled with joy, laughter, prayer, and fascinating conversation. I felt warmly welcomed and loved. But what’s more, I knew I was participating in a sacred tradition that has existed since the Exodus from Egypt. My life was forever changed.
Shabbat is one of my favorite aspects of Jewish life. The outside world fades away for 25 hours and my focus is on God, the Torah, my family, and all of the wonderful customs of this sacred day. It is now a weekly tradition in my house.
Where am I now?
Throughout my journey thus far I have adopted most of the Shabbat practices. I light the candles, say the prayer, drink the wine, bake the Challah, and serve a Kosher feast-actually it’s more of a mini feast. I will soon incorporate the Havdalah portion to usher out the Shabbat celebration.
Conclusion
Converting to Judaism truly is a journey. It doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a long-term commitment to learn and grow as a child of Abraham and Sarah. While my knowledge expands the traditions I adopt increase. But the most important aspect of this journey is my relationship with God. It’s changed in so many ways. I have a deeper understanding of my creator, a stronger faith, and a profound and evergrowing love for the Torah. Shabbat Shalom!
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