Exodus 31:15 - Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to Yahweh. Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day shall surely be put to death.
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What does "Exodus 31:15" mean?
This verse is part of the Ten Commandments and other laws given to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. Let's break it down:
"Six days shall work be done..." This establishes a pattern of six days of labor or regular work.
"...but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to Yahweh." This identifies the seventh day (Saturday in the traditional Jewish calendar) as a special day of rest dedicated to God (Yahweh being the Hebrew name for God). It's not just a break; it's a "solemn rest," meaning it should be observed with reverence and seriousness. The day is considered "holy" (set apart) for God.
"Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day shall surely be put to death." This is a very strict and severe penalty for violating the Sabbath. It indicates the immense importance placed on Sabbath observance in the Old Testament law.
Key Interpretations and Considerations:
Literal vs. Symbolic: Historically, Jewish and Christian scholars have interpreted this verse in different ways. Some take the prohibition of "any work" very literally. Others understand it more symbolically, focusing on the spirit of rest and devotion rather than a rigid list of prohibited activities.
Context within the Old Testament Law: It's crucial to remember this verse is part of a larger legal code given specifically to the Israelites. The purpose of these laws was multifaceted: to establish a distinct identity for the Israelites, to guide their relationship with God, and to regulate their society.
Severity of the Penalty: The death penalty for Sabbath violation highlights the seriousness with which God viewed obedience in the Old Testament covenant. However, the actual implementation of this penalty likely varied throughout Israelite history, and the exact definition of "work" would have been subject to interpretation by religious authorities.
New Testament Perspective: In the New Testament, Jesus challenged some traditional interpretations of Sabbath observance, emphasizing compassion and the needs of people over rigid adherence to rules. He declared that "the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27). Many Christians believe that while the principle of rest and worship remains important, the specific regulations and the death penalty of the Old Testament law are not binding on believers today.
In Summary:
Exodus 31:15 commands a weekly day of rest dedicated to God, with a severe penalty for its violation. It reflects the importance of Sabbath observance in the Old Testament law and provides a foundation for later theological discussions about the meaning and purpose of rest.
Exodus 31:15 - Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to Yahweh. Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day shall surely be put to death.
What does "Exodus 31:15" mean?
This verse is part of the Ten Commandments and other laws given to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. Let's break it down:
"Six days shall work be done..." This establishes a pattern of six days of labor or regular work.
"...but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to Yahweh." This identifies the seventh day (Saturday in the traditional Jewish calendar) as a special day of rest dedicated to God (Yahweh being the Hebrew name for God). It's not just a break; it's a "solemn rest," meaning it should be observed with reverence and seriousness. The day is considered "holy" (set apart) for God.
"Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day shall surely be put to death." This is a very strict and severe penalty for violating the Sabbath. It indicates the immense importance placed on Sabbath observance in the Old Testament law.
Key Interpretations and Considerations:
Literal vs. Symbolic: Historically, Jewish and Christian scholars have interpreted this verse in different ways. Some take the prohibition of "any work" very literally. Others understand it more symbolically, focusing on the spirit of rest and devotion rather than a rigid list of prohibited activities.
Context within the Old Testament Law: It's crucial to remember this verse is part of a larger legal code given specifically to the Israelites. The purpose of these laws was multifaceted: to establish a distinct identity for the Israelites, to guide their relationship with God, and to regulate their society.
Severity of the Penalty: The death penalty for Sabbath violation highlights the seriousness with which God viewed obedience in the Old Testament covenant. However, the actual implementation of this penalty likely varied throughout Israelite history, and the exact definition of "work" would have been subject to interpretation by religious authorities.
New Testament Perspective: In the New Testament, Jesus challenged some traditional interpretations of Sabbath observance, emphasizing compassion and the needs of people over rigid adherence to rules. He declared that "the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27). Many Christians believe that while the principle of rest and worship remains important, the specific regulations and the death penalty of the Old Testament law are not binding on believers today.
In Summary:
Exodus 31:15 commands a weekly day of rest dedicated to God, with a severe penalty for its violation. It reflects the importance of Sabbath observance in the Old Testament law and provides a foundation for later theological discussions about the meaning and purpose of rest.