Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, rest is a significant theme that permeates the observance of the annual feasts and added rest days as prescribed in the Old Testament. These periods of rest are not merely physical cessation from labor but are deeply spiritual, serving as times for worship, reflection, and renewal of the covenant relationship between God and His people.Sabbath Rest and the Feasts The concept of rest is first introduced in the creation narrative, where God rests on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3). This sets a precedent for the Sabbath, a weekly day of rest, which is later codified in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11). The Sabbath serves as a model for the annual feasts, which also incorporate rest as a central element. Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread The Passover, followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread, marks the beginning of the annual feasts. The first and seventh days of the Feast of Unleavened Bread are designated as holy convocations, during which no regular work is to be done (Exodus 12:16, Leviticus 23:7-8). This rest underscores the deliverance from Egypt and the beginning of a new life of freedom under God's covenant. Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) Fifty days after the Sabbath following Passover, the Feast of Weeks, or Pentecost, is celebrated. This feast includes a day of rest, a holy convocation, where no regular work is permitted (Leviticus 23:21). It is a time of thanksgiving for the harvest and a reminder of the giving of the Law at Sinai, reinforcing the covenant relationship. Feast of Trumpets The Feast of Trumpets, occurring on the first day of the seventh month, is another appointed time of rest. It is a day of solemn rest, marked by the blowing of trumpets and a holy convocation (Leviticus 23:24-25). This feast signals the beginning of the fall feasts and calls the people to prepare for the Day of Atonement. Day of Atonement The Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur, is the most solemn of the rest days. It is a day of complete rest, affliction of the soul, and a holy convocation (Leviticus 23:27-32). On this day, the high priest makes atonement for the sins of the people, symbolizing reconciliation with God. Feast of Tabernacles The Feast of Tabernacles, or Sukkot, is a week-long celebration with rest days on the first and eighth days (Leviticus 23:35-36). This feast commemorates the Israelites' wilderness journey and God's provision. The rest days bookend a time of rejoicing and gratitude for the harvest and God's faithfulness. Added Rest Days In addition to the prescribed feasts, other rest days are observed, such as the Sabbatical Year and the Year of Jubilee. Every seventh year, the land is to rest, and debts are forgiven (Leviticus 25:4). The Year of Jubilee, occurring every fiftieth year, is a time of liberation and restoration, where property is returned, and slaves are freed (Leviticus 25:10-12). These added rest days emphasize God's sovereignty over time and resources, reminding the Israelites of their dependence on Him and His provision. They serve as a powerful symbol of spiritual rest and redemption, pointing to the ultimate rest found in Christ. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 23:7,8,21,25,28,30,31,35,36In the first day you shall have an holy convocation: you shall do no servile work therein. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 28:18,25,26 Numbers 29:1,7,12,35 Library The Consecration of Joy The Foundations of Good Citizenship. From the Beginning of 1785 to the End of 1786 The Life of S. Hilarion. The Book of Jubilees From the Close of the General Conference of 1816 to the ... In Judaea The Social Test of Religion From the Conference of 1773 to the Commencement of the War in 1776 CHAP. II. 4-25 (2-23). Resources How is Jesus our Sabbath Rest? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we enter into God's rest? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about rest and relaxation? | GotQuestions.org Rest: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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