Gates of Shabbat: A Guide for Observing Shabbat

by Mark Dov Shapiro

Jews who are unsure about the significance of Shabbat as well as those who are already committed to Shabbat will be able to use this guidebook in order to encounter the seventh day and its possibilities. Written in the modern spirit of Reform Judaism, Gates of Shabbat includes the basic ceremonies necessary for introducing Shabbat into the home plus background material on the origins and purposes of the various rituals. The book also includes musicfor Shabbat, prose and poetry selections, and presentations on the role of the synagogue and the meaning of "rest" for the contemporary Jew. Gates of Shabbat concludes with a summary of the ways in which a liberal Jew can approach Shabbat under the heading, "The Mitzvot (Commandments) of Shabbat." The Central Conference of American Rabbis is the professional association of Reform rabbis in the United States, Canada and abroad, founded in 1889 by Isaac Mayer Wise. It is the largest publisher of Jewish liturgy in the world.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Judaica, Religion, Holiday, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published August 25, 1991

Reviews

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

For someone just beginning to observe Shabbat, whether a secular Jew or a convert, this book is incredibly helpful. It gives a step by step guide to Shabbat observance, the synagogue service, blessings at home, Friday evening through Saturday morning, concluding with Havdalah at night. It includes Biblical references as well as prayers and blessings in Hebrew, English and transliterated.

It includes other readings, meditations and poems that you may want to include in your observance, explains the original 39 categories of work while pondering the meaning of work and rest in modern times. This book does not try to argue one way or another about the "correct" or "preferred" way to observe Shabbat but instead leads the reader on a journey to formulate that answer for themselves. One chapter is dedicated to ways in which Shabbat can be observed, including 36 suggestions from real people in the Jewish community.

A quick and easy read packed full of thought provoking information.

[Matt Sowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book geared towards Reform Judaism. While it may offer some insight or thoughts for Orthodox, it probably won't be as helpful for someone trying to stay Shomer Shabbat in the strict sense.

That being said, I found this book incredibly helpful for someone struggling to connect to Shabbat and wanting to find ways that work for someone that can't be as observant as they want due to work or life.

Great for a new convert, an old convert, or even someone that has always been Jewish but is wanting to reconnect to the basics.

It offered a lot to explore, think about, and even gives directions for prayers and things you can do. It discusses law, theory, and gives arguments for various situations. A very engaging book that really encourages you to observe Shabbat but also to find your own personal connection to it besides just doing what you are supposed to do.

[Gaby · Rating 1 out of 5]

more for reform Jews, which is fine but not for me.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very basic guide for beginners. I wish I knew of a similar book but written from a Conservative perspective (this is a Reform book).

[Jaime · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good guide

A little repetitive but hopefully that will help the lessons sink in! Really liked the example paths for Shabbat afternoon - that felt quite unique and very useful!

[David Rullo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This a book I go back to weekly. A great source for Shabbat, filled with the prayers, blessings and order one would expect to find. There are also suggestions to further your experience and make the weekly celebration your own.