Which Day Was to Be Kept Holy?
In the biblical tradition, the concept of keeping a day holy is central to spiritual life and obedience to God. The day specifically designated to be kept holy is the seventh day of the week, commonly known as the Sabbath. This practice has profound theological, spiritual, and practical significance in the life of the people of Israel and later in broader Judeo-Christian tradition.
1. Origin and Divine Command
The origin of the Sabbath as a holy day comes from the very foundation of creation. According to the account in Genesis, God created the heavens and the earth in six days and rested on the seventh day. This day of rest was not due to God’s need for rest, but rather as a model for humanity to follow—a rhythm of work and rest established by divine example.
Later, this command was explicitly given to the Israelites in the Ten Commandments. In Exodus 20:8-11, God instructs:
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.”
This command emphasizes remembrance, rest, and holiness as key elements of the Sabbath. By keeping the seventh day holy, the Israelites were acknowledging God’s sovereignty and their covenant relationship with Him.
2. Significance of Keeping the Day Holy
Keeping the Sabbath holy was not simply about refraining from labor—it carried deep spiritual significance:
-
Rest and Renewal: Just as God rested, humans are called to rest from their ordinary work, which allows for physical and spiritual renewal. This rhythm underscores the balance between work, devotion, and reflection.
-
Holiness and Separation: By setting aside the seventh day, the Israelites were symbolically separating themselves from ordinary activities and dedicating time exclusively to God. Holiness in this context means being set apart for divine purposes.
-
Covenantal Reminder: Observing the Sabbath served as a constant reminder of the covenant between God and Israel. It reflected obedience, trust, and the acknowledgment that life and provision ultimately come from God.
-
Community and Worship: The Sabbath also fostered communal worship and reflection, as families and communities gathered for prayer, teaching, and rest from labor.
3. Practical Observance
The specific practices of keeping the Sabbath holy included:
-
Refraining from Work: The Israelites were instructed to cease their regular labor and work-related activities.
-
Spiritual Activities: Engaging in prayer, study of the Torah, and communal worship.
-
Feasting and Celebration: Some interpretations included preparing special meals, celebrating the day with joy, and remembering God’s provision.
Failure to observe the Sabbath was considered a serious violation of God’s command, illustrating the day’s sacred nature. In the Old Testament, Sabbath violations were met with strict consequences, reinforcing its importance in maintaining the community’s holiness and obedience.
4. Continuing Relevance
The principle of keeping a day holy extends beyond the immediate context of ancient Israel. In Christian tradition, the Sabbath is often associated with Sunday worship, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, while in Jewish tradition, the Saturday Sabbath remains a central pillar of faith. Both traditions maintain the focus on rest, reflection, and devotion, underscoring the timeless nature of this divine command.
Conclusion
The day designated to be kept holy is the seventh day of the week—the Sabbath. It was instituted by God as a day of rest, worship, and spiritual renewal. Observing this day holistically—through rest, devotion, and communal gathering—serves as a sign of holiness, obedience, and a continual reminder of God’s covenant. The Sabbath remains a profound example of how humanity can honor the divine rhythm of work, rest, and spiritual focus.