The laws around drinking on Shabbat in Judaism are complex, as with many things in Jewish law. Here is a quick overview of the main issues and rules around drinking on this holy day of rest.
What is Shabbat?
Shabbat (also known as Shabbos or the Sabbath) is the Jewish day of rest and seventh day of the week, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. Shabbat is one of the most important Jewish holidays and serves as a day to focus on God, spend time with family, celebrate the spiritual renewal of the Jewish people and enjoy physical rest.
Is drinking alcohol allowed on Shabbat?
Yes, drinking alcohol is generally permitted on Shabbat. The enjoyment of wine and other intoxicating drinks is considered part of the joy and celebration of the Sabbath day. However, as with all things on Shabbat, drinking alcohol is subject to certain laws and restrictions.
What are the restrictions around drinking on Shabbat?
There are a few key restrictions to keep in mind:
- Drunkenness is forbidden – you should not drink to the point of intoxication where you may violate other Shabbat prohibitions.
- Preparing drinks is prohibited – you cannot mix drinks or open bottles/cans, since this violates the prohibition against “creating” on Shabbat.
- You should preferably drink wine, as it is considered part of the mitzvah of Oneg Shabbat (the obligation to enjoy Shabbat).
- Drinking should be done in the context of the Shabbat meals, Kiddush blessings or for Oneg Shabbat.
- Those observing shomer Shabbat cannot turn electric lights on or off to access drinks in a fridge.
Is there a recommended amount you should drink?
There are no set limits on how much you can drink per se, as long as you avoid getting drunk. It is up to the individual to drink responsibly. Many Jewish legal scholars say you should ideally drink no more than the amount you would on a regular weekday.
Can you drink non-alcoholic drinks?
Yes, there is no prohibition on drinking non-alcoholic drinks on Shabbat, such as juice, soda, water, coffee or tea. However, the restrictions around preparing drinks apply. You cannot make a cup of coffee from start to finish, for example, since that involves “creating” something new. Pre-made drinks that require no preparation can be consumed.
What blessings should you say before drinking?
It is customary and encouraged to say blessings before drinking on Shabbat:
- Borei p’ri hagafen – recited before drinking wine.
- Shehakol – recited before drinking water, juice, soda or other non-alcoholic drinks.
During Kiddush, the blessing over wine also fulfills the requirement for a blessing before the Shabbat meal.
What about drinking in the context of rituals and prayers?
Drinking wine is a central part of many Shabbat rituals and prayers:
- Kiddush – Blessing sanctifying Shabbat over a cup of wine before the Friday evening meal.
- Havdalah – Blessing separating Shabbat from the rest of the week, involving wine.
- Brit milah – Wine is given to baby boys at a circumcision ceremony on the 8th day.
- Kos shel bracha – Blessing given to a new mother, involving wine.
The use of wine in these rituals is customary and part of the mitzvah of Oneg Shabbat. As such, it is encouraged to use wine, where possible.
Can you drink in a public place on Shabbat?
Drinking alcohol in public places and outside the home is not encouraged on Shabbat. Ideally, drinking should be done as part of Shabbat meals and celebrations within the home. However, there are no direct prohibitions per se against drinking in public or outside the home on Shabbat.
Can you buy drinks or go to a bar on Shabbat?
No. Purchasing drinks or going to bars or restaurants involves monetary exchange, which is forbidden on Shabbat as it violates the prohibition on commerce and trade.
What if you’re at a hotel for Shabbat?
If staying in a hotel for Shabbat, you should prepare any drinks you may want in advance before the start of Shabbat. You can also ask the hotel to provide drinks in your room in advance. Ordering drinks after Shabbat has started would involve others preparing them for you, which is not allowed.
What about drinking and driving on Shabbat?
Driving a vehicle is prohibited on Shabbat, unless it’s a life-threatening emergency. Drinking alcohol definitely impairs your ability to drive safely. So drinking and driving should absolutely be avoided in all circumstances on Shabbat.
Conclusion
In summary:
- Drinking alcohol on Shabbat is generally permitted and can be part of celebrating this holy day.
- However, drinking should be moderate and not done to excess or drunkenness.
- The laws prohibit drinking that involves effort, such as preparing mixed drinks.
- Drinking should ideally be integrated into Shabbat rituals, prayers, meals and family time.
- Non-alcoholic drinks can be consumed freely, within the laws of preparing drinks.
- Public drinking, buying drinks and drinking and driving are prohibited on Shabbat.
Following these guidelines and the Jewish values of temperance and holiness on the Sabbath allows one to enjoy and celebrate Shabbat while honoring this special mitzvah.