keep the Sabbath: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘keep the Sabbath’ mean?
The idiom "keep the Sabbath" means to observe or follow religious customs and practices on the day of rest.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "stay on" means to continue to work or be employed in a certain place or position for a period of time.
The idiom "keep the peace" means to maintain harmony, calm, and order in a situation or relationship, usually by preventing conflict or resolving disputes.
The idiom "keep tabs on" means to monitor or keep a close watch on someone or something. It implies staying informed or updated about the activities, progress, or whereabouts of a person or situation.
The idiom *keep straight* means to continue in the same direction or to maintain a clear and honest approach without deviation.
The idiom "keep shtum" means to remain silent or keep quiet about something, especially when it is important or could cause trouble if revealed.
The idiom "keep quiet" means to remain silent or not speak, especially when it is important to do so in order to maintain secrecy, avoid trouble, or not reveal information.
The idiom "keep one's mouth shut" means to remain silent or not reveal information, often to avoid causing trouble or trouble for oneself. It emphasizes the importance of not speaking or disclosing something that should remain secret or private.
The idiom "keep one's head down" means to avoid drawing attention or staying out of trouble in order to stay safe or unnoticed in a dangerous or difficult situation.
The idiom "keep one's eye on the ball" means to stay focused on the task or goal at hand without getting distracted. It is often used in sports to emphasize the importance of concentration and not losing sight of the main objective.
Unveiling Sabbath Symbolism
Idioms play a significant role in the English language, allowing individuals to express complex ideas in a concise and metaphorical manner. One such idiom is "keep the Sabbath," which has its roots in religious practices dating back centuries. This idiom holds a unique place in the lexicon of English speakers, invoking a sense of reverence for a particular day of rest and observance.
The idiom "keep the Sabbath" originated from the biblical commandment to observe the Sabbath, found in the Ten Commandments. The Sabbath, or Shabbat, is described in the Torah as a day of rest and reflection dedicated to the worship of God. This idiom carries the connotation of diligently adhering to the religious tradition and refraining from work or worldly activities on the designated day.
Over time, the meaning of the idiom has expanded beyond its religious origins and acquired broader usage in everyday language. While it maintains its religious significance in certain contexts, "keep the Sabbath" can also denote taking a break, enjoying leisure time, or simply relaxing. In this broader sense, the idiom emphasizes the importance of taking regular breaks and finding tranquility amidst the demands of a fast-paced world.
Interestingly, the idiom's usage extends beyond the Judeo-Christian tradition. Similar concepts of observing periodic rest days can be found in various cultures and religions worldwide. For instance, Islam observes the Jumu'ah, a congregational prayer and sermon conducted on Fridays. In Hinduism, followers may practice the concept of "Sabbath" on different weekdays, depending on regional customs. These parallels in different religious and cultural contexts further emphasize the universal human need for rest and reflection.
While the idiom "keep the Sabbath" continues to be understood and used by English speakers, its frequency may be decreasing in certain circles, as contemporary lifestyles increasingly prioritize productivity and constant engagement. However, the idiom's longevity and ongoing relevance speak to its lasting impact on the language and its ability to capture an essential aspect of human experience.
As language evolves and cultural practices shift, the idiom "keep the Sabbath" invites us to reflect not only on the significance of rest but also on the role of tradition and contemplation in our lives. It reminds us of the need to strike a delicate balance between productivity and meaningful rest, guiding us towards a more holistic approach to living. In a world that often values busyness and achievement, this idiom serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of rest, reflection, and honoring one's spiritual or personal beliefs.
The idiom "break the Sabbath" carries a contrasting meaning to "keep the Sabbath." While "keep the Sabbath" represents adherence to rest and reverence, "break the Sabbath" signifies a deliberate violation of the religious tradition and engaging in activities that are prohibited on the designated day. It carries a sense of rebellion or disregard for the established norms and expectations.
The idiom "keep the peace" shares a similar structure to "keep the Sabbath" but conveys a different concept altogether. "Keep the peace" refers to maintaining a harmonious and conflict-free environment. It involves actively preventing or resolving conflicts, promoting understanding and cooperation, and fostering a sense of unity among individuals or groups.
Similarly, the idiom "keep quiet" denotes the act of remaining silent or refraining from speaking. It is used in various contexts to urge someone to stay silent or not disclose certain information. This idiom emphasizes the importance of restraint, listening, and carefully considering the impact of words in different situations.
In a more informal and colloquial context, the idiom "keep shtum" is often used with a similar meaning as "keep quiet." In some cases, it adds a sense of secrecy or confidentiality, suggesting that the information being withheld is particularly sensitive or confidential. This idiom implies a necessary element of discretion or the need to protect confidential matters.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "keep the Sabbath" can be used in a sentence:
1. Mary is very religious and always makes sure to keep the Sabbath by attending church on Sundays.
2. Despite having a busy schedule, John tries his best to keep the Sabbath and spends his Sundays relaxing and spending time with his family.
3. The company policy emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and encourages employees to keep the Sabbath by taking regular days off.