Definition: And ye shall have on the tenth [day] of this seventh month an holy convocation; and ye shall afflict your souls: ye shall not do any work [therein]:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Numbers 29:7. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious part of the Bible! Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a special period of rest and focus for the Israelites in the seventh month. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Numbers 29” : This refers to a specific event in the Book of Numbers, which tells the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt. “And ye shall have on the tenth [day]…” : This is key. It’s saying that this rest isn't just any day; it's the tenth day of the seventh month. It’s a specific, designated time. “…of this seventh month” : This clarifies which month we’re talking about – the seventh month in the year. “an holy convocation…” : This is where it gets a little tricky and symbolic. “Holy Convocation” means a special gathering or assembly. So, what does it mean? The verse suggests that during this tenth day of the seventh month, the Israelites are to completely cease all work . It’s not about a simple break; it's a deliberate and focused period of rest and prayer. Think of it as a time for spiritual renewal and preparation. Why is this important in the Bible? This passage is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the Sabbath – the seventh day of week, which was established by God to be a day of rest and worship. It’s believed to be a significant moment where God prepared his people for their journey into the Promised Land. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated over the centuries. Different interpretations exist, but it's generally understood as a period of intense prayer and preparation before entering the land of Israel. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any aspect of this passage? For example, would you like to know: Why is this verse considered significant in the Old Testament? What does it tell us about the relationship between God and His people?