Sabbath

March 29, 1999
Taking the Jewish Sabbath tradition as his starting point, Muller (How, Then, Shall We Live?) uncovers the basic pattern of all living things to follow a rhythm of exertion and rest. Human beings are not exempt from the physical need for rest, and it is the author's contention that we have a deep spiritual need to regularly experience joy and to rest from our labors. Although he explicates from the Sabbath, Muller, an ordained minister, is not Jewish; he is merely appreciative of the Jewish tradition. In treating his subject, he touches on the ways in which many faiths--including Christianity, Islam and Buddhism--also encourage a rhythm of work and rest. Muller does not limit Sabbath practice to a seven-day pattern but encourages his readers to create their own uniquely suitable Sabbath practices--daily, weekly or according to some other pattern. Each chapter ends with a couple of brief tales that exemplify an aspect of sacred rest, followed by practical suggestions for integrating a Sabbath spirit into daily life. Muller's insights are applicable within a broad spectrum of faiths and will appeal to a wide range of readers, from the eclectically spiritual to those practicing Judaism or professing Christianity.