Q&A for How to Keep the Sabbath

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  • Question
    Can I play games for money on the Sabbath?
    Katie Arledge Rutan
    Community Answer
    This would not be keeping the Sabbath holy. You should refrain from work or shopping on the Sabbath and use it as a day to focus on God and family.
  • Question
    What do I do if I have a school exam on Sabbath, but I want to keep the Sabbath holy?
    Community Answer
    Because this is part of your religious routine, inform your school and have them move your exam to another day.
  • Question
    Is it ok to help at nursing homes with activities, such as bingo or arts and crafts on Saturday?
    Community Answer
    Yes, doing service is fine. If you are still unsure, talk to your rabbi.
  • Question
    Can I wash dishes on the sabbath day.
    Community Answer
    Yes. "Work" refers to monetary transactions, or work for money.
  • Question
    Can I watch TV on the Sabbath?
    Community Answer
    While it's not bad for you to watch some TV on the Sabbath, it would be better to focus your mind on activities that bring you closer to God, like walking in nature or reading your Bible.
  • Question
    Are kids expected to keep the Sabbath, since technically they don't work and for them every day is a day of rest?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Keep in mind that not everyone is as lucky as you - some children do have to work, either by doing chores around the home or by actually going out to bring money into the household. Homework and study also counts as work.
  • Question
    Can I play video games on the Sabbath?
    Community Answer
    No, you should avoid playing video games on the Sabbath as they're not focused on God.
  • Question
    Is it wrong to travel or go on vacation on the Sabbath?
    Community Answer
    If you are strictly following the laws, then it is.
  • Question
    Is it bad if I take a good job because it interferes with the start of Sabbath?
    Community Answer
    It depends on what you believe. Talk it over with your religious leader.
  • Question
    If it's wrong to travel on the Sabbath and it's a day of rest, why do people go to church on the Sabbath?
    Community Answer
    In the Jewish tradition the Sabbath is usually strictly kept - not always so much for Christians, I think it depends on denomination. Jewish people who observe the Sabbath will not usually travel in vehicles on the Sabbath. It is a day dedicated to religious contemplation and meaningful interaction with family and friends. From a Christian viewpoint it's important to not get obsessed with rules, or you can lose the point and warp God’s gift of rest into a burden. Jesus healed on the Sabbath. As long as you set aside time each week to contemplate God so you don't set up your work and life as idols, that's the main thing. Church, home, elsewhere - where you contemplate is your choice.
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