In just two weeks' time a global movement involving one of Judaism's most ancient and fundamental principles could make history.

The Shabbos Project aims to unite Jews from around the world, of all backgrounds - whether religious or not - to keep Shabbat on 24/25 October.

It may sound like a tall order, but the initiative's success in South Africa, where it was founded by South African Chief Rabbi Rabbi Ze'ev Warren Goldstein, has encouraged organizers to believe they can make it go global.

A new viral video released last month shows dozens of participants, young and old, religious and secular, from countries spanning the US, UK and Israel; to Panama, Argentina, France and Hong Kong - all declaring their intention to take part in the project.

Illustrating the buzz that is evidently being generated by the project, the new video features some high-profile figures, including prominent rabbis, politicians, activists and celebrities.

Former US Senator Joe Lieberman, Jewish Agency Chairman Natan Sharansky, Philadelphia Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Shmuel Kamenetsky, Israeli basketball star Tamir Goodman and US legal activist Brooke Goldstein are just some of them. 

It even has its own hashtag: #keepingittogether

But its success, says Rabbi Goldstein, will be measured in its ability to involve Jews from all walks of life.

"There is a real, deep desire and thirst for Jewish unity; we've seen it under difficult circumstances this year," he said, referencing the remarkable unity exhibited during Israel's defensive operation to end rocket fire from Gaza against its civilians. "The Shabbat Project is a chance for us to choose unity."