CARR 267-268

CCAR RESPONSA

Contemporary American Reform Responsa

177. A Holiday Gift Wrapping Project and

Shabbat

QUESTION: For six years Congregation Beth El, in

Traverse City, has cooperated in a fund-raising effort by operating a Christmas gift wrap service

at the local shopping mall. This activity has provided funds both for the congregation and the

local United Way campaign. Is it appropriate for the congregation to sponsor such an activity

during shabbat? (C. Carnick, Traverse City, MI)ANSWER: Reform Judaism

has continually emphasized the general mood of shabbat. It is a day of rest, worship,

study and family activity (S. Maslin, Gates of the Season, pp. 18 ff). In the matter of

specific prohibitions, traditional Judaism has been guided by the thirty-nine major categories of

work listed in the Mishnah (Shab. 7.2; 49b) and their later development in the Codes

(Yad, Tur, Shulhan Arukh etc.) We, too, have emphasized the need to refrain

from the normal routine of work. It is clear from both the Biblical commandments and

the subsequent development of Judaism that all kinds of business activities are prohibited, and it

is the task of the congregation to encourage its members to live in the spirit of shabbat

without involvement in any business activity. The fact that the activity helps to provide funds for

the congregation and the United Way Campaign would make no difference. The holiday gift

wrapping activity is carried out in a business setting with all the bustle and activity of the normal

working week. It necessitates the involvement of individuals in a working routine, and so, in

every way is a business activity. It should not be conducted by Jews, either on Friday night or on

shabbat. After shabbat is over on Saturday night, there would be no objection to

Jewish involvement.October 1985

If needed, please consult Abbreviations used in CCAR Responsa.