The Annual Feast of the LORD
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
The Annual Feasts of the LORD, also known as the Jewish Festivals or Appointed Times, are a series of sacred observances instituted by God for the people of Israel. These feasts are detailed primarily in the Torah, particularly in Leviticus 23, and are integral to the religious and cultural life of the Jewish people. They serve as times of worship, remembrance, and celebration, each with its own unique significance and rituals.

Biblical Foundation

The foundation for these feasts is found in Leviticus 23:1-2 : "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Speak to the Israelites and say to them: These are My appointed feasts, the appointed feasts of the LORD, which you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies.'" This passage underscores the divine origin and authority of these feasts, marking them as holy convocations set apart by God Himself.

The Major Feasts

1. Passover (Pesach): Celebrated on the 14th day of the first month (Nisan), Passover commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage. It is a time to remember the sacrificial lamb whose blood marked the doorposts, sparing the Israelites from the plague of the firstborn (Exodus 12:1-14).

2. Feast of Unleavened Bread: Immediately following Passover, this seven-day feast (Nisan 15-21) involves the removal of leaven from homes, symbolizing the haste of the Israelites' departure from Egypt and the call to holiness (Exodus 12:15-20).

3. Feast of Firstfruits: Celebrated on the day after the Sabbath following Passover, this feast marks the beginning of the barley harvest. It is a time to offer the firstfruits to the LORD, acknowledging His provision (Leviticus 23:9-14).

4. Feast of Weeks (Shavuot or Pentecost): Occurring fifty days after the Feast of Firstfruits, this feast celebrates the wheat harvest and the giving of the Law at Sinai. It is a time of joy and thanksgiving for God's bounty and revelation (Leviticus 23:15-21).

5. Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah): On the first day of the seventh month (Tishri), the Feast of Trumpets is marked by the blowing of the shofar, calling the people to repentance and preparation for the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 23:23-25).

6. Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): The holiest day of the year, observed on the 10th day of Tishri, is a solemn day of fasting, prayer, and repentance. It is a time for the high priest to make atonement for the sins of the nation (Leviticus 16; 23:26-32).

7. Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): Beginning on the 15th day of Tishri, this seven-day feast celebrates the harvest and commemorates the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. It involves dwelling in temporary shelters, reminding the people of God's provision and protection (Leviticus 23:33-43).

Theological Significance

The Annual Feasts of the LORD are rich in theological meaning, pointing to God's redemptive plan and His covenant relationship with His people. They serve as a foreshadowing of the Messiah, with many Christians seeing fulfillment in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For instance, Christ is seen as the Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7), and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is linked to the Feast of Weeks (Acts 2).

Contemporary Observance

While the feasts were originally given to Israel, they hold significance for Christians as well, offering insights into the biblical narrative and God's unfolding plan of salvation. Many believers today study these feasts to gain a deeper understanding of their faith and the continuity between the Old and New Testaments.
The Announcement to the Shepherds
Top of Page
Top of Page