Turns out, they’re all about that rest too.
The Book of Jubilees, a fascinating text considered canonical by some Jewish and Christian traditions but not included in the standard Hebrew Bible, gives us a peek behind the celestial curtain. In it, God commands Moses to tell the children of Israel about the sanctity of Shabbat, the Sabbath. But it's not just a day off; it's a participation in something far grander.
Jubilees chapter 2, verse 30, paints a picture of utter holiness and blessing for those who observe Shabbat. It's not just about avoiding work; it's about aligning ourselves with the very rhythm of creation.
The text goes on to emphasize how important it is to really keep Shabbat. It's not enough to just go through the motions. We need to guard against "the error of their hearts" (Jubilees 2:31), making sure we're not just physically resting, but also mentally and spiritually present. Are we truly ceasing our weekday worries and anxieties, or are we just counting down the minutes until Saturday night?
And what does that look like, practically? Well, according to Jubilees, it means refraining from "any work thereon which is unseemly, to do thereon their own pleasure, and that they should not prepare thereon anything to be eaten or drunk" (Jubilees 2:31). That might sound strict! It’s a reminder that Shabbat isn't just a free day for errands and hobbies. It’s a sacred time, set apart for something higher. : the angels themselves, beings of pure spirit and devotion, observe a day of rest. When we observe Shabbat, we’re joining them, entering into a state of holiness and blessing that permeates all of existence. It’s a powerful thought, isn't it? It elevates the simple act of lighting candles and refraining from work into a cosmic event, a weekly reminder of our connection to something far bigger than ourselves. So, this Shabbat, maybe we can all try to connect to that sense of holiness and blessing. And feel a little more like an angel.