Exodus 20:10

but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God, on which you must not do any work--neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant or livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates.

Study Bible

but the seventh day
The phrase "the seventh day" refers to the culmination of the week, a day set apart by God Himself during the creation narrative in Genesis. The Hebrew word for "seventh" is "שְׁבִיעִי" (shevi'i), which is derived from the root "שֶׁבַע" (sheva), meaning "seven." This number often symbolizes completeness and perfection in the Bible, reflecting God's perfect creation. The seventh day is a reminder of God's rest after creation, inviting His people to enter into His rest and reflect on His sovereignty and provision.

is a Sabbath
"Sabbath" comes from the Hebrew word "שַׁבָּת" (Shabbat), meaning "rest" or "cessation." The Sabbath is a holy day of rest instituted by God, serving as a sign of the covenant between God and Israel (Exodus 31:16-17). It is a day to cease from labor and to focus on spiritual renewal and worship. The Sabbath underscores the importance of rest in God's design for humanity, reminding believers of their dependence on God rather than their own efforts.

to the LORD your God
This phrase emphasizes that the Sabbath is dedicated to "the LORD your God," highlighting the personal relationship between God and His people. The name "LORD" in Hebrew is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God, signifying His eternal presence and faithfulness. The Sabbath is not merely a day of physical rest but a day of spiritual devotion and acknowledgment of God's lordship and provision.

on that day you must not do any work
The command "you must not do any work" is a direct instruction to cease from all forms of labor. The Hebrew word for "work" is "מְלָאכָה" (melachah), which refers to occupational or creative work. This cessation from work is a tangible expression of trust in God's provision, recognizing that life and sustenance come from Him, not from human effort. It is a call to prioritize spiritual matters over material concerns.

neither you, nor your son or daughter
This phrase extends the command to rest to one's immediate family, emphasizing the communal aspect of the Sabbath. It is not only an individual practice but a family and community observance. By including "son or daughter," the command ensures that the next generation is taught the importance of rest and worship, instilling values of faith and obedience to God.

nor your manservant or maidservant
The inclusion of "manservant or maidservant" highlights the egalitarian nature of the Sabbath command. In a society where servants were often required to work tirelessly, the Sabbath provided them with rest and dignity. This reflects God's justice and compassion, ensuring that all people, regardless of social status, experience rest and renewal.

nor your livestock
Even "livestock" are to rest on the Sabbath, demonstrating God's care for all creation. The Hebrew word for "livestock" is "בְּהֵמָה" (behemah), which includes domestic animals used for labor. This provision underscores the holistic nature of God's commandments, which extend mercy and rest to all living creatures, reflecting His character as Creator and Sustainer.

nor the foreigner within your gates
The phrase "foreigner within your gates" refers to non-Israelites residing among the Israelites. By including foreigners, the Sabbath command extends God's grace and rest beyond ethnic and national boundaries. It is a testament to the inclusivity of God's covenant, inviting all people to experience His rest and blessing. This foreshadows the New Testament revelation of God's salvation being available to all nations through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands the observance of the Sabbath as a sign of His covenant with His people.

2. The Israelites
The recipients of the Ten Commandments, including the command to observe the Sabbath.

3. Sabbath Day
The seventh day of the week, set apart as holy and a day of rest in commemoration of God's rest after creation.

4. Family and Servants
Includes sons, daughters, manservants, and maidservants, indicating the communal aspect of Sabbath observance.

5. Foreigners and Livestock
Even non-Israelites and animals within the community are to rest, highlighting the universal application of the Sabbath rest.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Rest
God designed the Sabbath as a day of rest, reflecting His own rest after creation. This principle encourages us to cease from our labors and trust in God's provision.

Holiness and Worship
The Sabbath is a day set apart for the LORD, emphasizing the importance of dedicating time to worship and spiritual renewal.

Community and Equality
The command extends to all members of the household and community, promoting equality and rest for everyone, regardless of social status.

A Sign of Covenant Relationship
Observing the Sabbath is a sign of the covenant relationship between God and His people, reminding us of our identity and commitment to Him.

A Reminder of Deliverance
The Sabbath serves as a reminder of God's deliverance, encouraging us to reflect on His past faithfulness and anticipate future redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of Sabbath rest challenge our modern understanding of work and productivity?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principle of rest into our weekly routine, even if we do not observe a traditional Sabbath?

3. How does the inclusion of servants, foreigners, and livestock in the Sabbath command reflect God's heart for justice and equality?

4. What are some practical ways we can make our day of rest a time of spiritual renewal and worship?

5. How does the Sabbath commandment connect to the broader theme of redemption and deliverance found throughout Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:2-3
The origin of the Sabbath is rooted in God's rest after creation, establishing a pattern for humanity.

Deuteronomy 5:12-15
Reiterates the Sabbath command, emphasizing remembrance of deliverance from Egypt, adding a dimension of liberation to the Sabbath.

Mark 2:27-28
Jesus teaches that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath, highlighting its purpose for human benefit and rest.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the Sabbath rest as a foreshadowing of the eternal rest believers will enter, connecting the physical rest to spiritual rest in Christ.