Numbers 28 outlines the sacrificial offerings required for various feasts. Verse 18, specifically, refers to the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Passover). Let's break it down:
"In the first day shall be a holy convocation:" This means there should be a solemn assembly of the people for religious purposes. A "convocation" is a gathering or assembly, often for a formal purpose. The term "holy" indicates that this gathering is dedicated to God. In the context of Passover, this involved remembering and celebrating God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt.
"You shall do no regular work:" This means that on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Israelites were prohibited from engaging in their usual occupations or labor. This was a day set aside for worship, reflection, and remembrance of God's faithfulness. The cessation of work was a way to focus entirely on the religious significance of the day. It's important to note that the exact definition of "regular work" (Hebrew: mə·lā·ḵāh) has been debated and interpreted differently throughout Jewish tradition, but it generally encompasses activities considered to be occupational or income-generating.
In summary, the verse instructs the Israelites to:
1. Gather for a sacred assembly (holy convocation): To commemorate the Feast of Unleavened Bread and remember God's deliverance.
2. Abstain from regular work: To dedicate the day to religious observance and avoid distractions from their usual daily routines.
This verse highlights the importance of setting aside specific times for worship, remembrance, and rest. It also emphasizes the need to prioritize spiritual activities over worldly pursuits during designated holy days.
Numbers 28 outlines the sacrificial offerings required for various feasts. Verse 18, specifically, refers to the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Passover). Let's break it down:
"In the first day shall be a holy convocation:" This means there should be a solemn assembly of the people for religious purposes. A "convocation" is a gathering or assembly, often for a formal purpose. The term "holy" indicates that this gathering is dedicated to God. In the context of Passover, this involved remembering and celebrating God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt.
"You shall do no regular work:" This means that on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Israelites were prohibited from engaging in their usual occupations or labor. This was a day set aside for worship, reflection, and remembrance of God's faithfulness. The cessation of work was a way to focus entirely on the religious significance of the day. It's important to note that the exact definition of "regular work" (Hebrew: mə·lā·ḵāh) has been debated and interpreted differently throughout Jewish tradition, but it generally encompasses activities considered to be occupational or income-generating.
In summary, the verse instructs the Israelites to:
1. Gather for a sacred assembly (holy convocation): To commemorate the Feast of Unleavened Bread and remember God's deliverance.
2. Abstain from regular work: To dedicate the day to religious observance and avoid distractions from their usual daily routines.
This verse highlights the importance of setting aside specific times for worship, remembrance, and rest. It also emphasizes the need to prioritize spiritual activities over worldly pursuits during designated holy days.