Shabbat is certainly the most important Jewish holiday in life. It’s an occasion observed on the seventh day of the week and it is one of the fundamental Judaism principles.
History and meaning of the Shabbat
Let’s discover the history and the meaning of the Shabbat.
The word Shabbat comes from the Hebrew root Shevat that means “to cease”. The Jewish Shabbat, in fact, implies the cessation of any work activity. It is the most important anniversary in the Jewish calendar and it is celebrated every week, marking the rhythm of people, family and community life.
Shabbat begins on Friday evening at sunset and ends on Saturday evening one hour after sunset as well as all Jewish holidays. In fact, in the Torah the words “And it was evening and morning” refer to creation. Shabbat hours therefore vary according to the place of reference, the time of year and then the time zone.
Following the story of the Shabbat we see how in Genesis it is told that the Lord created the Universe in six days and rested on the seventh. This means that the observant of the Jewish religion is required to cease all work at sunset on Friday evening in such a way as to devote himself completely to on the Shabbat day.
The Shabbat is an opportunity to free one’s spirit from the material duties of the week. It is time to dedicate time to the family and to the meditation of the Sacred Texts.
Curiosities and traditions of Shabbat
Among the curiosities and traditions related to the Shabbat, we note that on Friday evening it is customary in every house to light two candles whose flame until sunset on Saturday evening. This is an extremely important tradition because it signifies the entrance of light into the Jews people houses homes.
Meals that are consumed within the time frame that welcomes the Sabbath, so Friday dinner and Saturday lunch, must be prepared the days before and are usually very abundant.
In the tables are always present:
- Challah, traditional Jewish bread with a twisted shape similar to brioche bread, which does not contain animal fats or dairy products.
- The glass for the Kiddush, or the practice of thanksgiving for the day of rest, with the meaning of proving that the meal is being consumed is not like any other but it is a joyful and festive banquet. (
On the evening of the Shabbat, then at the end of the Shabbat, we proceed with the
“separation ceremony” (Havdalà) during that a special formula and four blessings are recited. For this rite you need a glass of wine, fragrant branches and a lit candle.
Shabbat with Casalino Osteria Kosher
At Casalino Osteria Kosher we carefully observe all Shabbat times throughout the year. To accompany our loyal customers during this day of celebration, we have two active services that will allow you to spend the Shabbat with all the taste of Casalino Osteria Kosher:
- Take-away menu for Friday night and Saturday night
- Challah, to be purchased directly in our headquarters.
- photo menu
You can book directly by calling the restaurant at +39 06/7978 1514 and picking up your order in Via del Portico d’Ottavia, 1e.
We look forward to spending the Shabbat together, as one big family
