σάββατον

sabbaton is a transliteration of the Hebrew word šabbāt and is related to the verb šābat, which is used of God’s resting on the seventh day of creation (Gen. 2:2–3). Generally speaking, work is prohibited on the Sabbath. Rabbinic works are replete with lists of what is permitted or prohibited on this day. sabbaton in the NT agrees with Jewish usage and is in keeping with what is known from Jewish sources, e.g., priestly work is permitted (Mt. 12:4–5), picking ears of corn is banned (Mk. 2:23–28), helping the sick is allowed only in life or death situations (3:1), the body of Jesus is buried before the Sabbath (15:42), the Sabbath is a day of rest (Lk. 23:56), items are not to be carried (Jn. 5:9–10), circumcision is also permitted (7:22–23), travel is limited (Acts 1:12), and Scripture is read (13:15, 27). According to Jesus the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath (Mk. 2:27–28). That is, in the creation story, God did not create a Sabbath and then create a human being to keep it; rather, he first created a human being, then knowing human beings would need rest, created the Sabbath for their benefit. The Lord wants us to enjoy the day of rest, not be burdened by it.