The fourth commandment, “Remember the Sabbath Day, to Keep It Holy,” means that we need to undergo a process of correction in order to reach a state of perfect connection. A correction takes place when we use our ego for the benefit of others instead of for self-benefit. By nature, we constantly think about ourselves. Now, however, we accept upon ourselves a new condition: that in all of our possibilities, i.e., in thought, feeling, and action, we work for the sake of others. We place ourselves at the service of the collective. This is what it means to correct ourselves.
We achieve such corrections gradually through stages called the “six weekdays.” Step by step, we become more connected to each other. Accordingly, as the ego continues growing, we need to strengthen our connection. Every time new “transgressions” or divisions are revealed between us, we cover them with love, as it is written, “Love covers all transgressions” (Proverbs 10:12).
This is how we eventually reach a state in which we have fully utilized our egoistic desires, and they become transformed into qualities of bestowal, love, and connection. At that point, we discover the force of bestowal and love in its fullness. This state is called “the Sabbath day.”
In short, the commandment “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” teaches us to always keep the state of Sabbath, which is a state of perfect connection, as our ultimate goal.
Based on “New Life 159 – The Ten Commandments, Part 2” with Kabbalist Dr. Michael Laitman. Written/edited by students of Kabbalist Dr. Michael Laitman.