Study Guide
How to Keep Shabbat as a Convert
Shabbat (שַׁבָּת) is the seventh day of the week, the sign of the covenant between the Jewish people and the Creator, and a weekly taste of the World to Come (mei'ein olam ha'ba). For twenty-five hours, from a few minutes before sunset on Friday until three stars appear on Saturday night, a Jew steps out of the world of making and into a world of being. This guide walks you through Shabbat as it is actually lived: how to prepare, how to welcome it at the table, what is forbidden and what is invited, and how to part from it gently at Havdalah.
Content aligned with the Shulchan Aruch and mainstream Orthodox poskim. Sources are cited throughout for further study.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions
What can't you do on Shabbat?
Observant Jews refrain from the 39 categories of creative work (melachot) — including writing, cooking, lighting fire, using electricity, driving, and carrying in a public domain without an eruv. Always confirm details with your sponsoring rabbi.
When does Shabbat start and end?
Shabbat begins Friday at least 18 minutes before sunset with candle-lighting and ends Saturday night when three stars appear, marked by Havdalah. Always confirm details with your sponsoring rabbi.
Do converts have to keep Shabbat fully before the Beit Din?
Orthodox conversion requires accepting and practicing the mitzvot, and Shabbat observance is central. Build up consistently with your community. Always confirm details with your sponsoring rabbi.