Definition: Seven days ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: on the eighth day shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: it [is] a solemn assembly; [and] ye shall do no servile work [therein].
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Leviticus 23:36. It’s a really important and fascinating part of Jewish tradition about how God wants to connect with his people. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “On the eighth day, you’ll give a special offering to God – a fire-burned one – and it will be a time for a special gathering.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “Seven days ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD…” This means you'll make this offering (a sacrifice) every seven days. It's a way of showing reverence and acknowledging God's presence. “…on the eighth day shall be an holy convocation unto you…” This is key! The eighth day is designated as a time for a special gathering. It’s like a day that’s set apart for communion with God. “And ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: it [is] a solemn assembly; [and] ye shall do no servile work [therein].” This is where it gets really interesting. It says you must make this offering with a fire – and it’s not just any offering. It's a sacred gathering. The phrase “a solemn assembly” means it's a time of importance and reverence, and you shouldn’t be doing anything else during this time. Importantly, "you shall do no servile work [therein]" - meaning you should avoid labor or tasks that aren't dedicated to God’s purposes. What does this all mean in a bigger picture? This passage is about: God’s Covenant with Israel: It’s a sign of the covenant – an agreement between God and his people - that’s a promise to bless them, protect them, and guide them. Recognition & Honor: The act of offering a fire-burned sacrifice on the eighth day demonstrates that you recognize God's importance and are willing to honor him. A Time for Worship and Connection: It creates a special opportunity for prayer, reflection, and fellowship with God. In short, it’s a beautiful way of saying "Let's dedicate this time to connecting with the divine." --- Do you want me to explain any part of this passage in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain what “fire” symbolizes? Talk about its significance in Jewish tradition?