Why is Saturday called 'Saturday'? The Story Behind the Day Dedicated to Saturn

Saturday is a day that many associate with rest, leisure, and time to enjoy after an intense workweek. But have you ever wondered why in English this day is called "Saturday"? The answer takes us to an interesting blend of Roman mythology, astronomy, and the evolution of languages.

Saturday: The Day of Saturn

The word "Saturday" comes from the Old English *Sæturnesdæg*, meaning "Day of Saturn." This name is inspired by the Roman god Saturn (Saturnus), known as the god of agriculture, time, and abundance. In Roman tradition, the days of the week were associated with visible celestial bodies and the deities that represented them. In this case, Saturday was named in honor of the planet Saturn, which in turn takes its name from the god.

While in Romance languages such as Spanish, Italian (sabato), or French (samedi), the name for Saturday derives from the Hebrew term *shabbat* (the day of rest in Jewish tradition), English and German (Samstag) preserved the link to Saturn. This reflects how cultural and religious influences have shaped languages in different ways.

The Symbolism of Saturn

In Roman mythology, Saturn was a complex figure, associated with prosperity but also with the discipline of time. His connection to agriculture made him a symbol of harvest and patience, values that are reflected in the more relaxed and reflective pace of Saturday in many cultures.

The planet Saturn, visible to the naked eye from Earth, also contributed to this name. In astrology, Saturn represents structure, responsibility, and the passage of time—characteristics that seem to invite a pause before starting a new week.

Curiosities About Saturday Around the World

Although Saturday has roots in Saturn in Germanic languages, in other cultures and traditions it takes on different meanings:

- In Hebrew: Shabbat, the sacred day of rest in Judaism.

- In Arabic: As-sabt, also connected to the idea of rest.

- In Romance languages: The term directly derives from the Hebrew shabbat, reflecting the religious influence on the language.

This diversity shows how the same day can be interpreted and named in different ways depending on the cultural and spiritual values of each society.

Saturday in Modern Culture

Today, "Saturday" is synonymous with fun and relaxation, especially in Western cultures, where it marks the beginning of the weekend. From the famous song "Saturday Night Fever" to sporting events and social gatherings, this day continues to be a special time to disconnect from routine.

The next time you find yourself saying "Saturday," remember that this day is not just the prelude to Sunday, but a reminder of the connection between mythology, astronomy, and everyday life.

And you, how do you celebrate your Saturday? Maybe it’s time to give this day, dedicated to the god Saturn and rest, a new meaning! 🌌