Definition: That which groweth of its own accord of thy harvest thou shalt not reap, neither gather the grapes of thy vine undressed: [for] it is a year of rest unto the land.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 25:5. It's a really important and somewhat complex passage about taking care of livestock! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says: “If you harvest your crops (like wheat or grapes), you don’t get to reap the results. You don’t get to collect anything from those crops.” Let's unpack that a little further: “That which groweth of its own accord…” – This is a bit tricky, but it means things that naturally and independently grow on land (like plants) are not yours to harvest. It’s like the harvest growing on its own . “…of thy harvest thou shalt not reap, neither gather the grapes of thy vine undressed…” – This is a metaphor! Think of it like this: If you're harvesting wheat, you’re getting the rewards (the grain). But if those wheat plants grow and produce their own fruit (like grains), you don’t get to keep them. You don’t harvest the results. “[For] it is a year of rest unto the land.” – This is the key part! The verse says this is a special time where the land needs to be rested . It's like giving the land a break from work and allowing it to recover and replenish itself. It’s a time for the soil to heal, and the land to grow again. In simpler words: This verse is about respecting God’s creation and giving the land time to rest and rejuvenate. It's a reminder that God wants us to take care of the earth and allow it to thrive, not exploit its resources. Why is this important? It's a foundational principle in Judaism and has influenced Christian thought for centuries. It highlights the idea that we shouldn’t be greedy or possess things without considering their impact on the whole system. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Leviticus 25? Give an example of how this principle applies today?