Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "One Year in Seven" is rooted in the biblical principle of the Sabbath year, also known as the Sabbatical year or the Shemitah year. This practice is primarily outlined in the Old Testament and is a significant aspect of the Mosaic Law, reflecting God's design for rest and renewal for both the land and His people.Biblical Foundation The primary scriptural basis for the Sabbatical year is found in Leviticus 25:1-7, where God commands the Israelites to observe a year of rest for the land every seventh year. The Berean Standard Bible states: "The LORD said to Moses on Mount Sinai, 'Speak to the Israelites and say to them: When you enter the land I am giving you, the land itself must observe a Sabbath to the LORD. For six years you may sow your field and prune your vineyard and gather its crops. But in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of complete rest for the land—a Sabbath to the LORD. You are not to sow your field or prune your vineyard. You are not to reap the aftergrowth of your harvest or gather the grapes of your untended vines. The land is to have a year of complete rest. Whatever the land yields during the Sabbath year shall be food for you—for yourself, your manservant and maidservant, the hired hand or foreigner who stays with you, and for your livestock and the wild animals in your land. All its growth may serve as food.'" This commandment emphasizes the importance of rest and trust in God's provision. The Israelites were to rely on the produce of the land from the sixth year to sustain them through the seventh year, demonstrating faith in God's promise to provide. Purpose and Significance The Sabbatical year served multiple purposes. It was a time for the land to rest and rejuvenate, preventing overuse and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This rest for the land is a reflection of the Sabbath rest commanded for people, as seen in Exodus 20:8-11, where the weekly Sabbath is instituted. Additionally, the Sabbatical year had social and economic implications. It was a time for the release of debts, as outlined in Deuteronomy 15:1-2 : "At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel the loan he has made to his fellow Israelite. He shall not require payment from his fellow Israelite or brother, because the LORD’s time for canceling debts has been proclaimed." This practice promoted economic equality and provided relief for the poor and indebted. Theological Implications The observance of the Sabbatical year underscores the theological principle of God's sovereignty and provision. It is a tangible expression of trust in God's ability to provide for His people, even when they cease their labor. The Sabbatical year also points to the ultimate rest found in God, foreshadowing the eschatological rest promised to believers. Historical Observance Historically, the observance of the Sabbatical year was a challenge for the Israelites, as evidenced by the prophetic rebukes found in the Old Testament. The failure to observe the Sabbatical years is cited as one of the reasons for the Babylonian exile, as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 36:21 : "So the land enjoyed its Sabbath rest; all the days of the desolation it kept Sabbath, until seventy years were complete, in fulfillment of the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah." Contemporary Reflection While the specific observance of the Sabbatical year is not a requirement for Christians today, the principles behind it remain relevant. The concept of rest, reliance on God, and care for creation are enduring themes that continue to resonate within the Christian faith. The Sabbatical year serves as a reminder of the rhythm of work and rest ordained by God and the call to trust in His provision. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 25:2-7Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them, When you come into the land which I give you, then shall the land keep a sabbath to the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Library Drunkenness. The Duty of Constant Communion JW 1870-1871. Workers' Meetings at Home of Industry --Training Home ... Esther, the Queen. Queen Esther's Love for Her People Life of Bede Concentration in Prayer Home and the Home-Maker. Jesus Discussed in Jerusalem. Sacred Times --The Lord's Day. Resources What is Hanukkah? Should a Christian celebrate Hanukkah (Christmaskah)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the origins of Easter? | GotQuestions.org What is Reformation Day? | GotQuestions.org Holiday: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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