The Origin of the Sabbath

Where did the observation of a Sabbath come from? Nahum Sarna points out that it is never instituted within Scripture. Instead, it is taken for granted that the people already observe it: “There cannot be any doubt that the sabbath belongs to the most ancient of Israel’s sacred days.” (20)

There is a connection to the practices of the surrounding peoples. A seven day week was used by West Semitic peoples. According to Sarna, “each seventh day of the lunar month possessed a special, if baneful, character.” (20) Fasts were required. Certain actions were forbidden for certain…