Leviticus 25:19

Then the land will yield its fruit, so that you can eat your fill and dwell in safety in the land.

Study Bible

Then the land
The phrase "the land" in Hebrew is "הָאָרֶץ" (ha'aretz), which refers specifically to the Promised Land given to the Israelites by God. This land was not just a physical territory but a divine gift, a place where God's people could live in covenant relationship with Him. The land was to be a reflection of God's provision and faithfulness. Historically, the land of Canaan was a fertile region, and its productivity was seen as a direct blessing from God. The promise of the land yielding its fruit is contingent upon the Israelites' obedience to God's commands, particularly the observance of the Sabbatical and Jubilee years outlined in Leviticus 25.

will yield its fruit
The Hebrew word for "yield" is "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or produce. This implies a natural and abundant provision from the land, a direct result of God's blessing. The "fruit" symbolizes not only agricultural produce but also the prosperity and sustenance that come from living in accordance with God's laws. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a land yielding fruit was a sign of divine favor and a stable society. The Israelites were to trust in God's provision, especially during the Sabbatical year when they were commanded to let the land rest.

so that you can eat your fill
The phrase "eat your fill" suggests satisfaction and abundance. In Hebrew, "לָשֹׂבַע" (lasova) conveys the idea of being satiated or having enough. This promise of fullness is a reassurance of God's provision, contrasting with the scarcity and famine that could result from disobedience. Eating one's fill is a tangible expression of God's care and a reminder of the manna provided in the wilderness. It underscores the principle that obedience to God leads to physical and spiritual nourishment.

and dwell in safety
"Dwell in safety" in Hebrew is "וִישַׁבְתֶּם לָבֶטַח" (viyshavtem lavetach). The word "safety" (בֶטַח, betach) implies security, peace, and confidence. This safety is not merely the absence of conflict but a profound sense of well-being that comes from God's protection. In the historical context, the Israelites faced threats from surrounding nations, and their security was directly linked to their faithfulness to God. The promise of safety is a covenantal blessing, emphasizing that true security is found in God's presence and provision.

upon it
The phrase "upon it" refers back to the land, emphasizing the connection between the Israelites' obedience and their experience of God's blessings in the land. The land is not just a backdrop for their lives but an integral part of their covenant relationship with God. Living "upon it" in safety and abundance is a foretaste of the ultimate rest and peace promised in God's eternal kingdom. This phrase serves as a reminder that the land is both a gift and a responsibility, calling the Israelites to faithful stewardship and trust in God's promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The primary audience of the book of Leviticus, the Israelites were God's chosen people, receiving His laws and instructions through Moses.

2. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is the land where the Israelites were to dwell and observe God's commandments.

3. Sabbath Year and Jubilee
Leviticus 25 discusses the Sabbath year (every seventh year) and the Year of Jubilee (every fiftieth year), times when the land was to rest, and debts were forgiven, emphasizing trust in God's provision.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Provision
The Israelites were called to trust God for their needs, especially during the Sabbath year. Similarly, we are called to trust God to provide for us, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Obedience Brings Blessing
The promise of safety and provision was contingent on the Israelites' obedience to God's commands. Our obedience to God's Word can lead to spiritual and sometimes material blessings.

Rest and Renewal
The concept of letting the land rest teaches us the importance of rest and renewal in our own lives. Observing regular times of rest can lead to spiritual and physical rejuvenation.

Living in Community
The laws in Leviticus 25 emphasize community well-being. We are encouraged to live in ways that support and uplift our communities, reflecting God's love and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of provision in Leviticus 25:19 encourage you to trust God in your current circumstances?

2. In what ways can you practice obedience to God's commands in your daily life, and how might this lead to blessings?

3. How can the principle of rest and renewal, as seen in the Sabbath year, be applied to your personal life and spiritual practices?

4. What are some practical ways you can contribute to the well-being of your community, reflecting the communal focus of Leviticus 25?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the principles found in Leviticus 25:19, and how can you apply these teachings today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:28-30
This passage connects to the idea of God providing for His people, as He did in the beginning when He gave Adam and Eve the earth's produce for sustenance.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about trusting God for provision, paralleling the trust required of the Israelites to let the land rest and rely on God's promise of safety and sustenance.

Psalm 37:3
This verse encourages trust in the Lord and doing good, promising that those who do so will dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture, echoing the promise of Leviticus 25:19.