Selected Reform Responsa 159 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