Nehemiah 10:31

When the people of the land bring merchandise or any kind of grain to sell on the Sabbath day, we will not buy from them on a Sabbath or holy day. Every seventh year we will let the fields lie fallow, and will cancel every debt.

Study Bible

When the neighboring peoples
This phrase refers to the non-Israelite communities surrounding the Jewish people. Historically, these neighboring peoples often had different religious practices and did not observe the Sabbath. The Hebrew term for "neighboring peoples" can imply those who are close in proximity but distinct in cultural and religious identity. This highlights the Israelites' need to maintain their distinctiveness and commitment to God's laws amidst external influences.

bring merchandise or any kind of grain to sell
The act of bringing merchandise or grain to sell indicates a common practice of trade and commerce. In ancient times, marketplaces were central to community life, and trade was a primary means of sustenance. The Hebrew word for "merchandise" suggests goods or wares, while "grain" underscores the agricultural basis of the economy. This phrase sets the stage for the Israelites' commitment to prioritize their covenant with God over economic gain.

on the Sabbath day
The Sabbath, a day of rest on the seventh day of the week, is a cornerstone of Jewish religious practice, rooted in the creation narrative where God rested on the seventh day. The Hebrew word "Shabbat" means to cease or rest, emphasizing the cessation of work. Observing the Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, serving as a reminder of God's creation and deliverance.

we will not buy from them
This commitment reflects a conscious decision to uphold the sanctity of the Sabbath by refraining from commercial activities. The Hebrew verb for "buy" implies acquiring or purchasing, and this decision underscores the community's dedication to God's commandments over economic transactions. It is a declaration of faith and obedience, prioritizing spiritual values over material pursuits.

on the Sabbath or on any holy day
The inclusion of "any holy day" extends the commitment beyond the weekly Sabbath to other sacred times, such as festivals and feasts prescribed in the Torah. These holy days were times of worship and remembrance, and abstaining from commerce during these times reinforced the community's focus on spiritual matters.

We will forego the crops of the seventh year
This refers to the Sabbatical year, or "Shemitah," a year of rest for the land every seven years as commanded in Leviticus 25:4. The Hebrew root for "forego" implies letting go or releasing, and this practice was an act of trust in God's provision. It served as a reminder of God's sovereignty over the land and the people's dependence on Him.

and will cancel every debt
The cancellation of debts in the seventh year, as outlined in Deuteronomy 15:1-2, was a radical act of economic justice and mercy. The Hebrew term for "cancel" suggests a release or remission, reflecting God's grace and the call for His people to mirror that grace in their dealings with one another. This practice fostered community solidarity and compassion, ensuring that no one was permanently burdened by debt.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
A Jewish leader who played a crucial role in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls and reforming the community after the Babylonian exile.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who are recommitting to the covenant and making specific pledges to follow God's laws.

3. Neighboring Peoples
Non-Israelite traders who would bring goods to sell to the Israelites, even on the Sabbath.

4. Sabbath Day
A holy day of rest instituted by God, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, as a sign of the covenant between God and Israel.

5. Seventh Year (Sabbatical Year)
A year of rest for the land, where no agricultural work was to be done, and debts were to be forgiven, as commanded in the Law of Moses.

Teaching Points

Honoring the Sabbath
The commitment to not buy or sell on the Sabbath underscores the importance of setting aside time for rest and worship, prioritizing spiritual over economic gain.

Trust in God's Provision
Observing the Sabbatical year and canceling debts requires faith in God's provision, teaching us to rely on Him rather than our own efforts.

Community and Covenant
The collective commitment of the Israelites to these practices highlights the importance of community accountability in spiritual growth and obedience.

Economic Justice and Mercy
The cancellation of debts every seven years reflects God's heart for justice and mercy, encouraging us to practice forgiveness and generosity in our financial dealings.

Cultural Distinctiveness
By adhering to these practices, the Israelites maintained their distinct identity as God's people, reminding us of the call to live counter-culturally in obedience to God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commitment to not buy or sell on the Sabbath challenge our modern understanding of rest and work?

2. In what ways can we practice trust in God's provision in our own lives, especially in times of financial uncertainty?

3. How can we, as a community of believers, hold each other accountable to live according to God's commands?

4. What practical steps can we take to reflect God's justice and mercy in our financial dealings with others?

5. How can we maintain our distinctiveness as Christians in a culture that often prioritizes economic gain over spiritual values?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:8-11
This passage provides the original commandment to keep the Sabbath day holy, emphasizing rest and dedication to God.

Leviticus 25:1-7
Details the laws concerning the Sabbatical year, where the land was to rest, and debts were to be forgiven.

Deuteronomy 15:1-2
Discusses the cancellation of debts every seven years, reinforcing the principle of economic justice and mercy.

Isaiah 58:13-14
Highlights the blessings associated with honoring the Sabbath, focusing on delighting in the Lord and refraining from personal pursuits.