Abstract

This article attempts to articulate key elements of the Sabbath that formulate and present spiritual and philosophical foundations of its observance applicable in today’s stressed society. The study offers a timely reflection on the message of the Sabbath, which has many elements in common with the current search for a vision of work–life balance. The result of the study is a summary of key spiritual, religious, and social factors building the understanding of man’s position in the world, in the natural environment, his complex work responsibility, and also the much-needed offer of total rest during the week. The study aims to search for the meaning of the link between work and free time that supports our understanding of responsibility in the current business society. The discovery of key factors rooted in the Judaic framework of human activities offers essential answers even for overloaded managers, entrepreneurs, and workers. The updated interpretation offers an answer about the personal calling to work in the context of natural and social environments oriented for the future. The research develops an understanding of the old institution of the Sabbath as a message for the perception and application of the world as a trustful and valuable frame space for life and responsible work with the perspective of past, present, and future. The study summarizes the current interpretations and actualization of chosen texts about the Sabbath. There are important implications for managers and workers in keeping the Sabbath, and steps can be taken to promote keeping the Sabbath.