Numbers 29:12

On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, you are to hold a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work, and you shall observe a feast to the LORD for seven days.

Study Bible

On the fifteenth day of the seventh month
This date corresponds to the Jewish month of Tishri, which typically falls in September or October in the Gregorian calendar. The fifteenth day marks the beginning of the Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot. This festival is one of the three major pilgrimage feasts in Israel, where all males were required to appear before the Lord in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 16:16). The timing is significant as it follows the harvest season, symbolizing gratitude for God's provision.

you are to hold a sacred assembly
A sacred assembly, or "holy convocation," is a gathering set apart for worship and reflection. This assembly underscores the communal aspect of worship in Israel, emphasizing unity and collective devotion to God. It is a time for the Israelites to come together to focus on spiritual matters, setting aside daily concerns to honor God.

you must not do any regular work
The prohibition against regular work highlights the sanctity of the day. It is a Sabbath-like rest, intended to allow the people to dedicate themselves fully to worship and celebration. This rest is a reminder of God's creation rest (Genesis 2:2-3) and serves as a foretaste of the ultimate rest found in Christ (Hebrews 4:9-10).

and you shall observe a feast to the LORD for seven days
The Feast of Tabernacles lasts for seven days, during which the Israelites live in temporary shelters or booths (Leviticus 23:42-43). This practice commemorates the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and God's provision during that time. The feast is both a time of remembrance and a celebration of God's continued faithfulness. It also points forward to the eschatological hope of dwelling with God, as seen in Revelation 21:3, where God will dwell with His people eternally.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are given specific instructions on how to worship and celebrate the feasts.

2. The Seventh Month
Known as Tishrei in the Hebrew calendar, it is a significant month for Jewish festivals, including the Feast of Tabernacles.

3. The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)
A seven-day festival commemorating the Israelites' journey in the wilderness and God's provision.

4. Sacred Assembly
A holy gathering of the people for worship and celebration, emphasizing community and devotion to God.

5. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who commands the observance of the feast as a reminder of His faithfulness and provision.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
The Feast of Tabernacles serves as a reminder of God's provision and faithfulness during the Israelites' wilderness journey. We are called to remember and celebrate God's faithfulness in our own lives.

Community and Worship
The sacred assembly emphasizes the importance of gathering together as a community to worship God. In our modern context, we should prioritize communal worship and fellowship.

Rest and Reflection
The command to refrain from regular work during the feast highlights the need for rest and reflection. We should incorporate regular times of rest and spiritual reflection into our lives.

Joyful Celebration
The feast is characterized by joy and thanksgiving. As Christians, we are called to live lives marked by joy and gratitude, recognizing God's blessings and sharing them with others.

Anticipation of Fulfillment
The Feast of Tabernacles points forward to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ and the coming Kingdom. We should live with an eternal perspective, anticipating the fulfillment of God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Feast of Tabernacles remind us of God's provision in our own lives today?

2. In what ways can we prioritize community and worship in our busy schedules?

3. What practical steps can we take to incorporate rest and reflection into our weekly routine?

4. How can we cultivate a spirit of joy and gratitude in our daily lives, even amidst challenges?

5. How does the anticipation of Christ's return and the coming Kingdom influence our current lifestyle and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23:33-43
Provides detailed instructions on the Feast of Tabernacles, emphasizing its significance and the requirement to live in booths.

Deuteronomy 16:13-15
Highlights the joy and thanksgiving associated with the Feast of Tabernacles, encouraging generosity and inclusion of all people.

John 7:37-39
Jesus speaks during the Feast of Tabernacles, offering living water, symbolizing the Holy Spirit and connecting the feast to the New Covenant.

Zechariah 14:16-19
Prophecies about the nations celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles in the Messianic age, indicating its enduring significance.