Topical Bible: Month: Ethanim (October)

◄ Month: Ethanim (October) ►

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Overview:
Ethanim is the seventh month of the ancient Hebrew calendar, corresponding to the modern months of September and October. It is a significant month in the biblical calendar, particularly noted for its association with the Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot, and other important events in Israel's religious life. The name "Ethanim" is believed to mean "permanent" or "strong," reflecting the enduring nature of the autumnal streams in the region during this time.

Biblical Significance:
Ethanim is mentioned explicitly in 1 Kings 8:2: "All the men of Israel assembled before King Solomon at the feast in the month of Ethanim, the seventh month." This verse highlights the importance of the month as it was during Ethanim that Solomon dedicated the newly built Temple in Jerusalem, a pivotal event in Israel's history.

Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot):
The Feast of Tabernacles, one of the three major pilgrimage festivals, is celebrated from the 15th to the 22nd of Ethanim. This festival commemorates the Israelites' 40-year journey in the wilderness, living in temporary shelters. Leviticus 23:34-36 instructs: "Speak to the Israelites and say, 'On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, the LORD’s Feast of Tabernacles begins, and it lasts for seven days. The first day is a sacred assembly; you are not to do any regular work.'"

During Sukkot, the Israelites were commanded to rejoice before the Lord, reflecting on His provision and protection. It is a time of thanksgiving and celebration, marked by the construction of temporary booths (sukkot) and the offering of sacrifices.

Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur):
Preceding the Feast of Tabernacles, the Day of Atonement falls on the 10th of Ethanim. It is the most solemn day in the Jewish calendar, a day dedicated to fasting, prayer, and repentance. Leviticus 16:29-30 states: "This is to be a permanent statute for you: On the tenth day of the seventh month, you must humble yourselves and not do any work... because on this day atonement will be made for you to cleanse you, and you will be clean from all your sins before the LORD."

Historical Context:
Ethanim, as the seventh month, holds a place of completion and fulfillment in the biblical narrative. The dedication of Solomon's Temple during this month signifies the culmination of God's promise to David and the establishment of a central place of worship for Israel.

Conclusion:
Ethanim is a month rich in spiritual significance, marked by reflection, repentance, and rejoicing. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of worship and community in the life of His people. Through the observance of the Day of Atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles, the Israelites were called to remember their dependence on God and His provision throughout their history.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 8:2
And all the men of Israel assembled themselves to king Solomon at the feast in the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Syriac Calendar.
... Month / Syrian / Hebrew. October / Tishri prior / Tishri, or Ethanim. November /
Tishri posterior / Bull, or Marcheshvan. December / Canun prior / Chisleu. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/unknown/the decretals/syriac calendar.htm