JLAW 201 The Laws of Shabbat I

JLAW 201 is a self-study course whose grade is based solely on the final examination. The course of study that is necessary to be prepared for the final examination consists of lessons based on the readings noted in this syllabus. Students should read the entire text of all the reading assignments. There are no formal assignments, but students are encouraged to take the practice quizzes associated with the readings to ensure that they have gleaned the appropriate knowledge to fulfill the course objectives and are well prepared for the final exam.

This course explores Jewish laws and customs concerning the Sabbath. It will cover the concepts, laws and customs related to the Sabbath, including the major principles and their underlying premises applied to novel situations. Topics include: rabbinical restrictions, desisting from weekday activities and occupations, avoiding preparations for after Sabbath, preparing to do positive commandments, speaking about work, excessive exertion, doing work on the eve of Sabbath, non-movable objects (muktza) due to value, forbidden use, and non-designation for use; asking a non-Jew to perform work (amira l’akum), candle lighting at the commencement of Sabbath, the conclusion of Sabbath, and the custom of separating between the Holy and the mundane.

Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: