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.