Rabbi’s Message: April 1, 2025
From Rabbi Lauren Ben-Shoshan
Starting today, Rabbi Evon is headed off to the second half of his sabbatical! We will miss his leadership over the next three months (he returns on July 1, 2025!). However, sabbaticals have a long history and are considered a vital custom in the Jewish people.
In Jewish tradition, the concept of sabbatical is rooted in the Torah, where it is referred to as the Shmita year. Every seven years, the land in the Land of Israel was to lie fallow, with no planting or harvesting, as a way to allow the land to rest and renew (Leviticus 25:2-7). This divine commandment reflects a broader principle in Judaism that stresses the importance of rest, not only for physical well-being but also for spiritual rejuvenation. The sabbatical year is seen as an opportunity for the community to focus on spiritual growth, charity, and reconnection with God. The idea that both the land and its inhabitants require periodic rest from their labors underscores the Jewish belief in the sanctity of balance between work and rest.
This concept of periodic rest extends to the weekly Shabbat, which provides a model for the sabbatical. Every seventh day, Jewish people refrain from work to commemorate God’s rest after creation (Genesis 2:2-3). This weekly rest not only benefits the individual’s physical health but also fosters spiritual mindfulness, helping to re-center the soul. Just as Shabbat serves as a weekly mini-sabbatical, the Shmita year extends this concept to a broader, communal level. The idea is that time spent in rejuvenation—whether of the land or the individual—is necessary for the flourishing of both body and soul.
Scientifically, the benefits of taking a sabbatical or extended break have been widely documented. Studies in psychology indicate that extended time away from the pressures of work can lead to significant improvements in mental health, creativity, and productivity. For instance, research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology demonstrates that time off can reduce burnout, alleviate stress, and foster a sense of personal growth and fulfillment. A 2018 study by the American Psychological Association highlighted that periods of rest can boost cognitive function, improve focus, and increase long-term job satisfaction. The brain, like the land in the Shmita year, requires time to recuperate and recharge in order to function at its highest potential.
Moreover, sabbaticals offer a chance for individuals to reevaluate their priorities and gain a fresh perspective. The Harvard Business Review notes that extended time away from work can provide the mental clarity necessary for making vision-oriented decisions. These breaks allow individuals to step out of their routine, reflect on their personal values, and return with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Thus, a sabbatical serves as an important tool for psychological and emotional renewal, allowing people to reconnect with themselves and their goals.
The Jewish tradition views rest as a holy and sacred practice. The concept of Shabbat and Shmita teaches that rest is not merely a break from work, but an essential part of human existence that fosters holiness, creativity, and spiritual growth. The holiness of rest is not simply about physical relaxation; it is about renewal—both of the body and soul. Taking time for rejuvenation allows us to better serve others, to deepen our connection with the divine, and to be more present in our daily lives. In embracing the sanctity of rest, we affirm the value of self-care and the recognition that true productivity and joy come not from ceaseless labor, but from balanced and intentional renewal.
Wishing you a balanced week—
