Shabbat Shalom

Shabbat Shalom (שַׁבָּת שָׁלוֹם) is a Hebrew greeting meaning "Peaceful Sabbath," used to wish someone a restful Jewish Sabbath (Shabbat) from Friday evening to Saturday evening, signifying a desire for peace and wholeness on the day of rest, often said as a greeting or farewell. It combines Shabbat (Sabbath/rest) and Shalom (peace/completeness), functioning like "Happy Sabbath" but also as "hello" or "goodbye" for the occasion, with responses like "Shabbat Shalom" or "Gut Shabbos" (Yiddish for "Good Sabbath") common.  

Meaning & Usage

Literal Meaning: "Sabbath of Peace" or "Peaceful Sabbath". 

Purpose: To convey wishes for peace, rest, and spiritual renewal during the weekly day of rest, a concept rooted in God resting on the seventh day. 

When to Say It: Before and during Shabbat, from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset, in religious or secular settings, as a greeting or farewell. 

Pronunciation & Variations

Pronunciation: "shah-BAHT shah-LOME" (with emphasis on the second syllable of each word). 

Yiddish Alternative: "Gut Shabbos" (Good Sabbath), especially among Ashkenazi Jews, can also be used as a parting wish as "Ah gutten Shabbos". 

How to Respond

Repeat the greeting: "Shabbat Shalom!".

Use the Yiddish alternative: "Gut Shabbos" or "Ah gutten Shabbos".

If you're unsure, simply repeat what the other person said.