In Defense of the Sabbath

Philo begins his discussion of the Sabbath by noting that while the number six represents creation, seven represents its perfection. His defense of the Sabbath seeks to refute pagan accusations of Jewish slothfulness. Thus, he argues that one day off every seven days has the net effect of increasing productivity. He also argues that because the day is devoted to learning, it focuses on intellectual and spiritual labor instead of physical labor. In other words, the Sabbath serves as a regular opportunity for people to rest and revitalize, while providing them an opportunity to devote themselves to philosophical pursuits, especially to developing their sense of duty to God and to other human beings. Thus, while the body rests on the Sabbath, the mind and soul are fully engaged.