Monday or Sunday: The First Day of the Week in Christianity and Around the World

The question of whether Monday or Sunday is the first day of the week often arises, especially within the context of Christianity. While in many Christian countries, Sunday is considered the start of the week, for others, Monday holds this distinction. This article explores the varying perspectives on the first day of the week in both Christian and secular contexts.

Christian Perspective: Sunday as the First Day

Christianity marks Sunday as the start of the weekly cycle, being the day of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. According to the New Testament, Jesus arose from the dead on the first day of the week, causing many Christians to celebrate the second day of the week as the beginning of their week.

For example, Abraham Samuel, a commenter, provides insight into how the Jewish Sabbath, which falls on Saturday, influences this perspective. He points out that for the Jews, the Sabbath is on Saturday, and thus Sunday is the first day of the week.

Variations Among Non-Christian Cultures

The idea that Monday is the first day of the week is more common among a majority of the world's population, particularly in countries influenced by the Gregorian calendar. For instance, in many Western countries, Monday marks the start of the workweek, followed by Saturday and Sunday as weekend days. This is not just a matter of religious observance but also dictated by secular and economic necessities.

In some Islamic countries, Friday is the day of rest and thus marks the first day of the week. For example, in Saudi Arabia and other Muslim-majority nations, Saturday is considered the end of the workweek, and Sunday follows as a part of the weekend.

Personal Perspectives

The question of the first day of the week can also come down to individual circumstances and personal preference. When retired like the author of this article, the concept of a strictly defined workweek loses its significance. Significant events such as waking up, exercising, eating meals, and various daily tasks take precedence over the traditional Monday-to-Sunday linear timeline.

For those in professions that operate on a fixed schedule, such as government servants, salaried employees, or healthcare professionals, the first day of the week is often associated with the start of their working week, which is typically Monday. For instance, government offices, banks, and public counters generally have fixed opening hours that dictate their operations.

In contrast, professions like airplane piloting, nursing, and engine driving might follow a different schedule, with the first day of the week variable based on operational needs. Those working at a large hospital, airport, or in the military have schedules that are not confined to a standard workweek and might observe a different first day of the week according to their specific job demands.

Moreover, for those who have retired, like the author, the distinction between days of the week becomes less significant. All days become Sundays as there is no defined work schedule to follow.

Conclusion: Flexibility of the First Day of the Week

Ultimately, whether Monday or Sunday is considered the first day of the week is flexible and varies based on cultural, religious, and personal contexts. While Sunday remains the primary first day for a significant portion of the world's population, including the United States, Monday is the first day for over 94% of the global population. This flexibility highlights the adaptability of timekeeping in response to diverse lifestyles and professional requirements.

For those in traditional work environments, the week follows a structured pattern, but for those who have retired or work in non-standard environments, the notion of the first day of the week may be less rigid, reflecting a more personalized approach to daily activities and time management.