The Shabbat Gateway

Observance of Shabbat is one of the three most fundamental principles of Judaism.
In this gateway we will discuss practical information you can use on how to keep Shabbos (Shabbat)

It is my hope now to begin, with Hashem’s help, a major project: to discuss Shabbos (Shabbat) from A to Z, details about every moment from preparing for Shabbos until after Shabbos ends. If Hashem desires it, and if He grants me the ability to do this, there should be many more articles to come.

Before Shabbos Begins

Shabbos: A Personal Contract
Shabbos (Shabbat) as a “sign.” The delight of Shabbos. More than just a part of our lives. The value of Shabbos.

The Reason For Shabbos
Some of the reasons that Hashem gave us the gift of Shabbos (Shabbat/Sabbath). Spiritual benefits and physical rest.

Find a Place for Shabbos
Links to websites that can help you find places to eat and/or stay for Shabbos.

The Weekly Portion of Torah
How to study the Weekly Portion of the Torah. Preparing for Shabbos. A Deeper Understanding of Reviewing the Parshah. When to Study the Parshah.

Erev Shabbos (Friday)

Preparing for Shabbos
In Ages Past and Today. Shopping for Shabbos. Cooking and Cleaning. Personal Preparations. Final Preparations.

Erev Shabbos Check-Off List
Erev Shabbos To-Do List. Organize your Fridays! Print out and attach to your refrigerator or bulletin board, and check off each item as its done.

Lighting Candles
The Procedure and Blessing for Lighting the Sabbath Candles

During Shabbos

Friday Night Kiddush
Declaring the holiness of Shabbos by honoring it with a cup of wine.

Washing for Challah
Beginning the Sabbath Meal. (Challah is the special Shabbos bread.)

Benshing
The Grace after Meals

Sholosh Seudos
The Third Shabbos Meal

As Shabbos Ends

Havdalah
Remembering Shabbat as it ends

After Havdalah
The Blessing after the Wine