Leviticus 26:35

As long as it lies desolate, the land will have the rest it did not receive during the Sabbaths when you lived in it.

Study Bible

All the days of its desolation
This phrase refers to the period when the land of Israel would lie fallow and uninhabited due to the disobedience of the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "desolation" is "שְׁמָמָה" (shemamah), which conveys a sense of devastation and ruin. Historically, this desolation is linked to the Babylonian exile, a time when the land was left uncultivated, fulfilling the prophetic warnings given by God. Theologically, this desolation serves as a divine reset, a period of cleansing and preparation for future restoration.

it will rest
The concept of rest here is deeply rooted in the Hebrew word "שָׁבַת" (shavat), which is the same root for "Sabbath." This rest is not merely a cessation of activity but a holy pause, a time for the land to rejuvenate and be restored to its intended purpose. In the biblical context, the land's rest is a reflection of God's creation order, where rest is integral to the cycle of work and renewal. This rest underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands, particularly the Sabbath laws, which were often neglected by the Israelites.

until the completion of the seventy years
The "seventy years" is a specific prophetic period mentioned in Jeremiah 25:11-12 and 29:10, referring to the Babylonian captivity. This timeframe is significant as it represents a complete cycle of judgment and restoration. Theologically, it highlights God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. The number seventy, often associated with completeness and perfection in Scripture, signifies the fullness of time required for the land to recover and for the people to repent and return to God.

as long as it lies desolate
This phrase emphasizes the duration of the land's desolation, reinforcing the idea that the land would remain unproductive and uninhabited until God's appointed time. The desolation serves as a tangible reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the seriousness of violating God's covenant. Historically, this period of desolation was a time of reflection and repentance for the Israelites, leading to a renewed commitment to God's laws upon their return.

it will have the rest it did not have during your Sabbaths
Here, the text highlights the failure of the Israelites to observe the Sabbath years, as commanded in Leviticus 25:4. The Sabbath rest for the land was a divine ordinance intended to teach trust in God's provision and to prevent exploitation of the land. The neglect of this commandment led to the land's enforced rest during the exile. This serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of obedience to God's laws and the consequences of neglecting His commands.

when you lived in it
This phrase points to the time when the Israelites inhabited the land but failed to honor God's commandments. It serves as a historical indictment of their disobedience and a call to remember the lessons learned during the exile. Theologically, it underscores the principle that God's blessings are contingent upon obedience, and that true prosperity is found in living according to His will. The past failures of the Israelites serve as a cautionary tale for future generations to remain faithful to God's covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law through Moses, including the command to observe the Sabbath.

2. The Land of Israel
The Promised Land given to the Israelites, which was to observe a Sabbath rest every seventh year.

3. Sabbath Rest
A commandment from God for the land to rest every seventh year, symbolizing trust in God's provision.

4. Exile
The consequence of Israel's disobedience, leading to the land lying desolate and finally receiving its rest.

5. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the Law, including the instructions for the Sabbath rest.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
God's commands, including the Sabbath rest, are not arbitrary but are designed for our good and His glory. Disobedience leads to consequences.

Trust in God's Provision
Observing the Sabbath rest required faith that God would provide. Similarly, we are called to trust God in our lives, even when it seems counterintuitive.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Ignoring God's commands can lead to spiritual and physical desolation. The exile was a direct result of Israel's failure to obey.

Spiritual Rest in Christ
The Sabbath rest points to a deeper rest found in Christ. Believers are invited to rest from their works and trust in the finished work of Jesus.

Stewardship of Creation
The command for the land to rest highlights the importance of caring for God's creation and recognizing our role as stewards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of Sabbath rest in Leviticus 26:35 relate to the creation account in Genesis 2:2-3?

2. In what ways can we practice trust in God's provision in our daily lives, similar to the Israelites' call to observe the Sabbath year?

3. What are some modern-day consequences of ignoring God's commands, and how can we learn from Israel's example?

4. How does the idea of spiritual rest in Hebrews 4:9-10 enhance our understanding of the Sabbath rest mentioned in Leviticus 26:35?

5. What practical steps can we take to be better stewards of God's creation, in light of the command for the land to rest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:2-3
The concept of Sabbath rest originates from God's rest on the seventh day of creation, establishing a pattern for rest and holiness.

Exodus 23:10-11
Provides the initial command for the land to observe a Sabbath rest, emphasizing the importance of rest and renewal.

2 Chronicles 36:21
Chronicles the fulfillment of the land's rest during the Babylonian exile, as prophesied in Leviticus 26:35.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the spiritual rest available to believers, drawing a parallel to the Sabbath rest commanded in the Old Testament.