What do Jews say on Friday? This question often arises as many people are curious about the customs and traditions of Jewish culture. Friday, known as Shabbat, holds significant importance in Jewish faith and is marked by a day of rest and spiritual reflection. In this article, we will explore the various expressions, prayers, and rituals that Jews engage in on this special day.
Shabbat begins on Friday evening at sunset and continues until Saturday evening at sunset. It is a time when Jews gather with their families and communities to celebrate, pray, and honor the sanctity of the day. One of the most iconic expressions associated with Shabbat is the greeting “Shabbat Shalom,” which translates to “Shabbat peace.” This greeting is exchanged among friends and family members to wish each other a peaceful and meaningful Shabbat.
Shabbat is a time for communal worship, and many Jewish communities attend synagogue services on Friday evenings. The service typically includes readings from the Torah, prayers, and hymns. One of the central prayers during the service is the Kabbalat Shabbat, which welcomes the Shabbat. It includes songs and prayers that express gratitude for the gift of Shabbat and the creation of the world.
Another significant aspect of Shabbat is the lighting of the Shabbat candles. Women and girls are traditionally responsible for lighting two candles before the onset of Shabbat. This ritual symbolizes the creation of light and the banishing of darkness, as well as the woman’s role in the sanctification of the day. The candles are often accompanied by blessings that express gratitude for the gift of Shabbat and the sustenance provided by God.
Shabbat is also a time for family and community gatherings. Many Jews observe a festive meal known as the Shabbat dinner or Shabbat lunch, depending on the time of year. The meal typically includes a variety of dishes, often with symbolic significance. For example, a roasted chicken or fish is often served to symbolize the freedom of the Jewish people. Potatoes and onions are also commonly included, as they are considered to be humble foods that represent the Jewish people’s history of oppression.
During the meal, it is customary to recite blessings over the food, known as “birkat hamazon,” which expresses gratitude for the meal and its preparation. The Shabbat table is often adorned with candles, a kiddush cup, and a special prayer book called the “Haggadah,” which is used during the Passover Seder.
Shabbat is not only a day of rest but also a time for spiritual growth and reflection. Many Jews engage in study and contemplation throughout the day. It is a time to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and focus on the deeper aspects of existence. Jews may read from the Torah, study Jewish texts, or simply spend time in quiet meditation and prayer.
In conclusion, what do Jews say on Friday? They say “Shabbat Shalom” and engage in a variety of rituals and traditions that celebrate the sanctity of the day. Shabbat is a time for rest, family, community, and spiritual growth, allowing Jews to connect with their faith and appreciate the beauty of life.
