Expert: Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner - 8/19/2010

Question
Shalom!
Can a rabbi work on the day of sabbath? I mean, if they don't work then the synagouge must be closed on sabbath.

Answer
Dear Henrik,

Thanks for writing, and I admit that in translation of "work" into English it would appear confusing or even contradictory.

First of all as a Rabbi, whether serving in a synagogue or any of the many other roles for an ordained Rabbi, traditionally we don't "work" in the Rabbinic sense of the word as it was used in the Bible.

In fact, synagogues are closed for work on the Sabbath, Friday just before sunset until after sunset Saturday - EXCEPT for worship and related activities. Offices, construction projects, etc. are all closed for this minimum of 25 hours, if not more.

What does "work" really mean in the Jewish tradition:

On the Sabbath, observant Jews do not perform "melachah" (Hebrew) which is more properly translated as creation or creative activities. We don't alter the world in which we live - sewing, painting, plowing, etc. - which in English ended up being translated as forbidden labors which then became forbidden to work. Get it?

However, we are encouraged to worship, to sing or lead singing, to recite the appropriate blessings around at least three traditional meals, to review our studies, to sleep, and to be with loved ones.

In my opinion, there is more time to do more than we ever have time to do when we are involved in the "work week." That is why I am a Sabbath observant Jew.

As a pulpit Rabbi I officiated at services as part of my role in the synagogue, but I wouldn't define it technically according to Rabbinic law as "work" - that is "melachah" although in the secular meaning of the word it might be understood as work  or a "job" requirement for a salary.

Does this help?

Best wishes

Rabbi Dov