#shabbat practice

[ask-jumblr]

How should I celebrate Shabbat while living with my goyshe family, 62 miles away from the nearest temple?

[progressivejudaism]

hello what are the rules for shabbat in progressive/reform judaism? what is forbidden? i heard using phones is forbidden is that true?

Hi there,

This is an extremely great, but complicated question that I cannot easily (or rather fully) answer fully in this space.

It’s important to understand an underlying message within Reform Jewish theology:

“Reform Jews today base their religious choices not so much upon appeals to reason, science, and aesthetics, as upon the language of religious and spiritual meaning. “Meaning,” as we know, can spring from any number of sources, and one of the most important of these is tradition. True, the fact that a particular practice is “traditional” does not guarantee that a Reform Jew will find it meaningful.” (Mark Washofsky, Jewish Living: A Guide to Contemporary Reform Practice, Pa. 9)

In the Reform Movement, we generally refrain from language such as “forbidden,” but instead understand that what might be forbidden in one person’s understanding of Jewish Law might be embraced and cherished in another person’s interpretation.  As Reform Jews, we strive to find meaning in the choices that we make - choices based on our understanding and education in Jewish tradition and our textual tradition.

For example, one Reform Jew might find that shutting social media off on Shabbat and holidays helps them to rest and reflect in a way that staying connected might not allow.  Another might say that disconnecting from social media is a silly practice, as Facebook and Instagram allow them to stay connected with friends and family on Shabbat and holidays- a connection that is most holy to them.  Some might believe that using their phones or computers in any way is not meaningful, but others might choose to use technology in order to enhance their practice.

What it boils down to is meaning: how can we best have a comfortable, compassionate, and meaningful holiday and/or period of rest.

Have a great night!

PJ