The Sabbath

by Abraham Joshua Heschel
The Sabbath cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Religion and Theology
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  • ID: 7955
  • Added: 2025-12-19
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9780374253219
  • Publisher: Macmillan
  • Published: 1951-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Abraham Joshua Heschel's The Sabbath is a timeless exploration of the spiritual significance of the Seventh Day in Jewish tradition. Heschel argues that Judaism is a religion of time, finding meaning not in physical space but in the eternity that imbues time. He introduces the idea of an 'architecture of holiness' that appears in time, making the Sabbath a 'great cathedral' in the spiritual life of believers. /n/n This elegant and passionate work delves into the love of God's creation and the profound impact of observing the Sabbath. Heschel's insights offer a deeper understanding of the Sabbath's role in fostering a connection with the divine and the eternal. The book has been celebrated as a classic of Jewish spirituality, resonating with readers seeking meaning in modern life.

Reviews
The New York Times · Judith Shulevitz · 2023-01-03
timeless 4.50

The book is a beloved and frequently read work that offers a deep and poetic exploration of the Sabbath. It is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers.

Judith Shulevitz shares her personal connection to the book, noting that it has been a source of inspiration and reflection throughout her life. She appreciates the book's poetic language and deep theological insights, which continue to resonate with her. Shulevitz also highlights the book's relevance in today's fast-paced world, where the concept of rest and sacred time is often overlooked. She believes that Heschel's message is as important now as it was when the book was first published.

Quick quotes

    When I was in college, a rabbi I knew, he gave me Abraham Joshua Heschel's book 'The Sabbath.' And I love that book. I've probably read it a dozen times.

    The book's poetic language and deep theological insights continue to resonate with me.

    Heschel's message is as important now as it was when the book was first published.

Bitesized Exegesis · 2017-06-21
insightful 4.50

The book is a classic of modern Jewish spirituality that offers valuable insights for Christians. It emphasizes the sacredness of time and the importance of rest in a fast-paced world.

This reviewer highlights how Heschel's work transcends Jewish spirituality to offer universal lessons on the sanctity of time. They appreciate the book's profound exploration of rest and its relevance in today's society. The writing is eloquent and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for those seeking spiritual depth. The reviewer also notes that the book's themes resonate deeply with contemporary challenges, such as the loss of a sense of the sacred in modern life.

Quick quotes

    The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel (1951) is a classic of modern Jewish spirituality that has a lot to say as a dialogue partner for Christians.

    Heschel's work transcends Jewish spirituality to offer universal lessons on the sanctity of time.

    The writing is eloquent and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for those seeking spiritual depth.

For The Someday Book · 2011-12-12
profound 4.75

The book is a profound and poetic exploration of the Sabbath, inviting multiple readings for deeper insights. It is a timeless work that continues to offer new perspectives with each read.

This reviewer emphasizes the book's poetic and theological depth, making it a work that deserves to be read and reread. They appreciate how each reading can reveal new and deeper insights, highlighting the timelessness of Heschel's message. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to challenge and inspire readers to think more deeply about the sacredness of time and the importance of rest. This is a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading it.

Quick quotes

    This is a book that begs to be read and reread, and I am certain that each and every reading would produce new and deeper insights.

    On my first reading, I was struck by the profound and poetic exploration of the Sabbath.

    The book's ability to challenge and inspire readers to think more deeply about the sacredness of time and the importance of rest is truly remarkable.

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