Shabbat – The sabbath, or holy day of the week, which starts on sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday

(Pronounced shah-baht)

To remember the meaning of Shabbat in Judaism, use the following mnemonic:

His shabby attire (Shabbat) was worn for most of the week, but on the sabbath or holy day he smartened up, even if he sat down all day (Saturday is holy day).

His shabby attire (Shabbat) was worn for most of the week, but on the sabbath or holy day he smartened up, even when he had sat down all day (Saturday is holy day).

The Jewish people believe God wishes them to observe the Sabbath and keep it holy as required by the fourth of the Ten Commandments.

The idea originated with the Bible story of the creation – God rested from creating the universe on the seventh day.

Shabbat is Hebrew for Sabbath, and comes from the Hebrew word for rest. Shabbat is part of the agreement between God and the Jewish People. This is why celebrating Shabbat is a reminder of the Covenant and an occasion to rejoice in God's promises.

During Shabbat, televisions are not watched and there is no rushing to meet the demands of busy work routines.

Sabbath candles are lit at sunset on the Friday, usually by "the woman of the house". After this, the family will drink a sweet wine from a special goblet known as the Kiddush Cup.

Candles, wine and bread - three of the things that mark Shabbat each week.

Under Jewish law, every Jew must eat three meals on the Sabbath, and at least one of these must include bread.

Some of the family will have been to the synagogue before the Sabbath meal on the Friday, and it is likely that the whole family will go to the synagogue on the Saturday.