Gentiles Observing Sabbath
Moshe Ben-Chaim
Reader: My name is xxxxxxxx and I am a Ger.
I have been reading the Tanach after my first mistake in buying the Torah put
out by Jews for Xians. I am so very interested in a dialogue with you as to
the many questions I have. One that comes to mind is that the Noachide Laws
don't include the Sabbath {Saturday} which I try to follow as best I know
how. I believe completely in Hashem - Blessed be His Holy Name - as Master of
the Universe and the One and only true G-d. Nevertheless, I am confused as to
what is expected of me as a gentile. It would be very helpful if I knew what
is the correct way to keep the Sabbath. At present I spend most of the day
reading the Tanach. My husband has a class reunion coming up which will be on
a Saturday evening, with dinner at 7:00. It is out of State. As of now, I am
not planning to attend with him because I'm not sure its proper. I'm looking
forward to a reply and thank you in advance.
Mesora: It is not
permitted for a Gentile to observe the Sabbath.
You may study what applies to Noachide laws, but the nature of the Sabbath is
a day, which highlights the distinction of the Jews as selected by G-d to
teach the world. The Jew's identification must not be diluted, and this is
all for the sake of keeping our identity distinct so Gentiles as you may know
whom to contact for education on G-d's will. It is not to our merit that G-d
selected the Jews, but it is only a merit to the founder, Abraham, who
himself was Noachide.
Based on a subsequent question of a reader, I correct
myself and add that a gentile may observe the Sabbath partially. It is
the complete observance of the Sabbath, which is forbidden.
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