Observing Sabbath

Abstract

The sabbath command in Deuteronomy 5 differs from the sabbath command in Exodus 20 with regard to the justification provided for the command. This article argues that the Deuteronomy justification, recalling Israel’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt, is superior and leads to more fruitful interpretations of the sabbath command than the Exodus justification, which appeals to God’s action in the creation. Sabbath observance should be understood as fundamentally connected with a concern for justice. This article provides suggestions for interpretive directions that can be more effective in challenging us to live more in accordance with the Old Testament vision of shalom.