Exodus 23:12 - “Six days you shall do your work, and on the seventh day you shall rest, that your ox and your donkey may have rest, and the son of your servant, and the alien may be refreshed.
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What does "Exodus 23:12" mean?
This verse, Exodus 23:12, is part of the Ten Commandments and expands on the principle of the Sabbath. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Six days you shall do your work, and on the seventh day you shall rest...": This is the core command - to work for six days and then observe a day of rest. This establishes a rhythm of labor and recuperation.
"...that your ox and your donkey may have rest...": This highlights the compassionate aspect of the Sabbath. It extends the right to rest not just to humans, but also to animals used for labor. This demonstrates a concern for the well-being of creatures that contribute to the household and economy. It prevents exploitation and promotes humane treatment.
"...and the son of your servant, and the alien may be refreshed.": This broadens the scope of the Sabbath to include all members of the community, regardless of their social standing or origin. "Servant" (or slave) indicates that even those who are bound to labor are entitled to a break. "Alien" (or foreigner) shows that even those who are not part of the Israelite community are to be afforded the same consideration and opportunity for rest and refreshment.
In essence, the verse means:
Regular Rest: The importance of setting aside one day out of the week for rest and recovery from labor.
Compassion: The Sabbath is not just for individual benefit, but also for the well-being of animals and marginalized members of society.
Inclusivity: The right to rest is not limited to a select few, but is extended to all within the community, including servants and foreigners.
Human Dignity: It upholds the dignity of all living beings by acknowledging their need for rest and respite.
This verse reflects a concern for justice, compassion, and the overall well-being of the entire community, reflecting the character of God as being caring and equitable.
Exodus 23:12 - “Six days you shall do your work, and on the seventh day you shall rest, that your ox and your donkey may have rest, and the son of your servant, and the alien may be refreshed.
What does "Exodus 23:12" mean?
This verse, Exodus 23:12, is part of the Ten Commandments and expands on the principle of the Sabbath. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Six days you shall do your work, and on the seventh day you shall rest...": This is the core command - to work for six days and then observe a day of rest. This establishes a rhythm of labor and recuperation.
"...that your ox and your donkey may have rest...": This highlights the compassionate aspect of the Sabbath. It extends the right to rest not just to humans, but also to animals used for labor. This demonstrates a concern for the well-being of creatures that contribute to the household and economy. It prevents exploitation and promotes humane treatment.
"...and the son of your servant, and the alien may be refreshed.": This broadens the scope of the Sabbath to include all members of the community, regardless of their social standing or origin. "Servant" (or slave) indicates that even those who are bound to labor are entitled to a break. "Alien" (or foreigner) shows that even those who are not part of the Israelite community are to be afforded the same consideration and opportunity for rest and refreshment.
In essence, the verse means:
Regular Rest: The importance of setting aside one day out of the week for rest and recovery from labor.
Compassion: The Sabbath is not just for individual benefit, but also for the well-being of animals and marginalized members of society.
Inclusivity: The right to rest is not limited to a select few, but is extended to all within the community, including servants and foreigners.
Human Dignity: It upholds the dignity of all living beings by acknowledging their need for rest and respite.
This verse reflects a concern for justice, compassion, and the overall well-being of the entire community, reflecting the character of God as being caring and equitable.