Shabbat Shira

Judaism

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Shabbat Shira, meaning "Sabbath of Song," is a special Sabbath in Judaism that occurs during the weekly observance of the Sabbath. The Sabbath itself, derived from the Hebrew word shavat meaning "to rest," is a day of holiness and rest observed from Friday sunset to Saturday nightfall. It commemorates God's rest after creation and serves as a reminder of the covenant with God.12

During Shabbat Shira, a specific portion of the Torah is read, which includes the triumphal song of Moses from Exodus 15, celebrating the Israelites' liberation from Egypt. This day emphasizes themes of song, joy, and deliverance. Observances include lighting Sabbath candles, festive meals, synagogue services with Torah readings, and the concluding Havdalah ceremony. The concept of "Joy of Sabbath" (Oneg Shabbat) also aligns with this theme, encouraging happiness and community gatherings.1234

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

7 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Sabbath
…readings recommences with Genesis 1; Shabbat Shira (“Sabbath song”), when the triumphal song of Moses is read from Exodus 15; and the two Sabbaths of ḥol ha-moʿed (“intermediate days”), falling between the initial and final days of the Passover and Sukkot festivals.
Read More
…readings recommences with Genesis 1; Shabbat Shira (“Sabbath song”), when the triumphal song of Moses is read from Exodus 15; and the two Sabbaths of ḥol ha-moʿed (“intermediate days”), falling between the initial and final days of the Passover and Sukkot festivals.
Read More