Leviticus 25:11

The fiftieth year will be a Jubilee for you; you are not to sow the land or reap its aftergrowth or harvest the untended vines.

Study Bible

The fiftieth year
The term "fiftieth year" refers to the culmination of a cycle of seven sabbatical years, each lasting seven years, making a total of 49 years. The fiftieth year, therefore, is the Jubilee year, a time of liberation and restoration. In Hebrew, the word for "fifty" is "חֲמִשִּׁים" (chamishim), which signifies a period of completion and renewal. This concept is deeply rooted in the idea of divine order and rest, reflecting God's sovereignty over time and His provision for His people.

shall be a jubilee
The word "jubilee" comes from the Hebrew "יֹבֵל" (yovel), which means "ram's horn" or "trumpet." The Jubilee year was announced with the sounding of a ram's horn on the Day of Atonement, signifying freedom and the return of property. This year was a time of great joy and celebration, as it symbolized God's mercy and the restoration of His people. The Jubilee serves as a powerful reminder of the ultimate redemption and freedom found in Christ, who is our Jubilee.

for you
The phrase "for you" emphasizes the personal and communal nature of the Jubilee. It was a gift from God to the Israelites, intended to benefit the entire community. This highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands and the blessings that follow. The Jubilee was not just a legal requirement but a divine provision for the well-being of His people, ensuring social justice and economic balance.

you are not to sow
The command "you are not to sow" indicates a cessation of agricultural activity during the Jubilee year. In Hebrew, "תִּזְרָע" (tizra) means "to sow" or "to plant." This instruction required the Israelites to trust in God's provision, as they were to refrain from planting crops. It was a test of faith, teaching reliance on God's sustenance and reminding them that the land ultimately belonged to Him.

or reap what grows by itself
The phrase "or reap what grows by itself" refers to the natural produce that would grow without human intervention. In Hebrew, "תִּקְצֹר" (tiktsor) means "to reap" or "to harvest." This command prohibited the Israelites from harvesting volunteer crops, emphasizing the principle of rest and trust in God's provision. It also ensured that the land could recover and rejuvenate, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

or harvest the untended vines
The instruction "or harvest the untended vines" further underscores the theme of rest and reliance on God. In Hebrew, "תִּבְצֹר" (tivtsor) means "to harvest" or "to gather." The untended vines, or "נְזִירֶיהָ" (nezirah), were not to be pruned or harvested, symbolizing a relinquishment of control and a focus on spiritual renewal. This practice pointed to the ultimate rest and restoration found in Christ, who invites us to abide in Him and bear fruit through His Spirit.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including the instructions for the Year of Jubilee.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws of Leviticus were given, including the observance of the Jubilee.

3. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the laws, including those concerning the Sabbath and Jubilee years.

4. Jubilee Year
A special year of rest and restoration occurring every 50th year, where the land was to lie fallow, and debts were forgiven.

5. Sabbath Year
Every seventh year, the land was to rest, which is a precursor to the Jubilee Year.

Teaching Points

Understanding Jubilee as Rest and Restoration
The Jubilee Year is a profound reminder of God's provision and sovereignty. It teaches us to trust in God's provision and to rest in His promises.

Spiritual Significance of Jubilee
The Jubilee Year foreshadows the ultimate rest and freedom found in Christ. As believers, we are called to live in the freedom and rest that Jesus provides.

Practical Implications of Jubilee Principles
The principles of the Jubilee encourage us to practice forgiveness, release from debts, and care for the poor and marginalized in our communities.

Trusting God's Provision
Just as the Israelites were to trust God for provision during the Jubilee, we are called to trust God in our lives, especially in times of uncertainty.

Living Out Jubilee Today
While the literal observance of the Jubilee is not practiced today, its principles can guide us in promoting justice, mercy, and compassion in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Jubilee Year challenge our modern understanding of ownership and wealth?

2. In what ways can the principles of the Jubilee Year be applied to our personal lives and communities today?

3. How does the Jubilee Year point to the work and mission of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate trust in God's provision, similar to the Israelites during the Jubilee Year?

5. How can the themes of rest and restoration in the Jubilee Year influence our approach to work and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:8-10
Provides the context for the Jubilee Year, explaining its purpose and how it is to be observed.

Isaiah 61:1-2
References the concept of the Jubilee in the prophecy of the coming Messiah, who will proclaim liberty and the year of the Lord's favor.

Luke 4:18-19
Jesus reads from Isaiah, declaring the fulfillment of the Jubilee principles in His ministry.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the spiritual rest that believers enter, which can be seen as a fulfillment of the Sabbath and Jubilee rest.