Obviously, technology has changed ancient traditions as it has evolved over the years. Jews who are accustomed to observing the Sabbath by giving up the use of electronics now face greater challenges. Last Saturday (March 20) Reboot held the first annual National Day of Unplugging. On this day, Reboot encouraged thousands of younger Jews to disconnect from their overpowering technology outlets. Facebook, Twitter, cell phones, computers: there were participants who avoided them all.
The organization’s purpose is to reengage Jews of this generation with traditions. This non-profit think-tank is composed of people working in the media sector, those who are surrounded the most with technology, meaning they are probably most anxious to take a break from it. Reboot, of course, ironically promoted this Day of Unplugging via all of the social networks sites like Facebook and Twitter.
Reboot also hoped that participants would recognize the organization’s ten guidelines, which range from “avoid technology†to “drink wine.†These guidelines are meant to support the movement to honor the Sabbath in ways that are closer to how our past generations have done so. Like they do with God’s commandment, people interpret the Sabbath Manifesto’s guidelines differently.
Relaxation is the main goal of these guidelines, as is the general message of not working on the Sabbath. Personally, I think the use of technology like cell phones, which overwhelm our society, is a large obstacle for those attempting to relax. Prohibiting their use enables people to have more of a focus on celebrating the Sabbath rather than on answering text messages or BBMs every five minutes.
Obviously, God’s commandment about resting on the seventh day is up for interpretation—especially in this matter since technology like cell phones were not around when it was written. As someone who avidly checks her e-mails and text messages on a constant basis via Blackberry, I completely understand the desire to stop the communication. While these technological innovations are clearly appreciated and useful, it is too frequent that I find myself immersed in my tech world rather than in reality.
Though I do not strictly observe the Sabbath, I think in the future I may try to unplug a bit more. I encourage you to find your own way to disconnect this Sabbath in a way that you never have before—whether it is not using your cell phone or Facebook, or simply just appreciating Mother Nature. Even if you do not observe the Sabbath (however you choose to interpret that), reconnecting with reality is what Reboot pushes Jews to do.
Taking a break from technology seems like a vacation in itself. However, please beware of the inevitable consequences—the rush of messages will probably overwhelm you once you check your technological devices.
Check out some of the shared experiences from this day on Reboot’s website and feel free to add your own experiences too!
