Leviticus 25:22

While you are sowing in the eighth year, you will be eating from the previous harvest, until the ninth year's harvest comes in.

Study Bible

While you are sowing
This phrase indicates a period of active agricultural work, specifically the act of planting seeds. In the Hebrew context, sowing is a significant act of faith and obedience, as it involves trusting God for the growth and provision of crops. The Hebrew root for sowing, "zara," implies scattering seed, which is an act of hope and expectation for future growth. This reflects the broader biblical principle of sowing and reaping, where one's actions and faithfulness lead to future blessings.

in the eighth year
The eighth year follows the sabbatical year, or "Shemitah," a year of rest for the land as commanded in Leviticus 25:4. The number eight in biblical numerology often signifies new beginnings and renewal. After a year of rest, the land is ready to be cultivated again, symbolizing a fresh start and God's provision for His people. This cycle of rest and renewal underscores the importance of trusting in God's timing and provision.

you will be eating
This phrase emphasizes God's promise of provision. Despite the land lying fallow during the sabbatical year, God assures His people that they will have enough to eat. The Hebrew word for eating, "akal," not only refers to physical sustenance but also implies satisfaction and enjoyment. This reflects the biblical theme that God provides abundantly for those who trust in Him.

from the previous harvest
The mention of the "previous harvest" highlights God's miraculous provision. The Israelites are reminded that the bounty from the sixth year will sustain them through the seventh and into the eighth year. This is a testament to God's faithfulness and the supernatural nature of His provision, as the land produces enough in one year to last for three. It serves as a reminder of the manna in the wilderness, where God provided daily sustenance for His people.

You will be eating until the ninth year
This phrase extends the promise of provision even further, ensuring that the people will have enough to eat until the new harvest is ready. The continuity of God's provision is emphasized, reinforcing the idea that reliance on God leads to security and abundance. The ninth year represents the completion of a cycle and the beginning of another, symbolizing God's unending faithfulness.

when its harvest comes in
The arrival of the new harvest signifies the fulfillment of God's promise and the reward for the people's faith and obedience. The Hebrew word for harvest, "qatsir," denotes the gathering of crops and is often associated with joy and celebration. This culmination of the agricultural cycle serves as a metaphor for spiritual harvest, where faithfulness and patience yield blessings and spiritual growth. The harvest is a time of rejoicing and gratitude, acknowledging God's provision and care.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai, including the instructions in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given. They were to observe the Sabbatical year as part of their covenant with God.

3. Sabbatical Year (Shmita)
A year of rest for the land observed every seventh year, during which the Israelites were commanded not to sow or reap.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the laws, including the instructions for the Sabbatical year.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites were to enter and where they were to observe these laws.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Provision
The command to observe the Sabbatical year required the Israelites to trust that God would provide for their needs even when they did not sow or reap. This teaches us to rely on God's provision in our lives, trusting that He will meet our needs.

Obedience to God's Commands
Observing the Sabbatical year was an act of obedience. It reminds us of the importance of following God's commands, even when it requires faith and patience.

Rest and Renewal
The Sabbatical year provided rest for the land and the people. This principle of rest is important for our spiritual and physical well-being, encouraging us to find regular times for rest and renewal.

Community and Sharing
The Sabbatical year emphasized community support, as the Israelites were to share the produce that grew naturally. This teaches us the value of community and generosity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Sabbatical year challenge our modern understanding of work and rest?

2. In what ways can we practice trusting God for provision in our daily lives, similar to the Israelites during the Sabbatical year?

3. How can the principle of rest and renewal be applied in our current fast-paced society?

4. What are some practical ways we can support and share with our community, reflecting the communal aspect of the Sabbatical year?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the principles found in Leviticus 25:22?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 23:10-11
This passage also discusses the Sabbatical year, emphasizing the rest for the land and provision for the poor and animals.

Deuteronomy 15:1-2
This scripture expands on the concept of the Sabbatical year, including the release of debts, highlighting God's provision and care for His people.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about trusting God for provision, which connects to the faith required to observe the Sabbatical year.

2 Corinthians 9:8
Paul speaks about God's ability to provide abundantly, which relates to the trust in God's provision during the Sabbatical year.