Leviticus 25:5

You are not to reap the aftergrowth of your harvest or gather the grapes of your untended vines. The land must have a year of complete rest.

Study Bible

You are not to reap
The Hebrew word for "reap" is "קָצַר" (qatsar), which means to cut down or harvest. In the context of Leviticus 25, this command is part of the Sabbatical Year, a time when the Israelites were instructed to let the land rest. This practice underscores the principle of trust in God's provision, as the people were to rely on what the land naturally produced without their intervention. It is a reminder of the divine ownership of the land and the need for humans to exercise stewardship rather than exploitation.

the aftergrowth of your harvest
The term "aftergrowth" refers to the secondary growth that occurs after the initial harvest. In Hebrew, this is "סָפִיחַ" (saphiyach), which implies something that grows of its own accord. The prohibition against harvesting this aftergrowth emphasizes the importance of allowing the land to rejuvenate. Spiritually, it teaches believers about the importance of rest and renewal, not just for the land but for themselves, trusting that God will provide even when they cease their labor.

or gather the grapes
The act of gathering grapes, "אָסַף" (asaph) in Hebrew, is a common agricultural activity. However, during the Sabbatical Year, this activity is restricted. Grapes, a symbol of joy and abundance in the Bible, are to be left untouched, signifying a pause in the usual cycle of work and consumption. This pause serves as a tangible reminder of God's sovereignty and the need for humans to align their rhythms with His divine order.

of your untended vines
The phrase "untended vines" refers to vines that are not pruned or cultivated during the Sabbatical Year. The Hebrew word "נָזִיר" (nazir) can be associated with being set apart or consecrated. This highlights the sacredness of the Sabbatical Year, where even the land is set apart for rest. It reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and separation unto God, encouraging believers to consider how they might set apart time and resources for spiritual purposes.

It will be a year of rest
The concept of "rest" is central to the Sabbatical Year, with the Hebrew word "שַׁבָּתוֹן" (shabbaton) indicating a special rest or cessation. This rest is not merely physical but also spiritual, providing an opportunity for reflection, renewal, and reliance on God. It is a precursor to the ultimate rest found in Christ, who offers rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-30). The Sabbatical Year teaches the importance of rhythm in life, balancing work with rest, and trusting in God's provision.

for the land
The land, "אֲדָמָה" (adamah) in Hebrew, is a recurring theme in the Bible, representing God's creation and provision. The command for the land to rest acknowledges its intrinsic value and the need for sustainable practices. It serves as a reminder of humanity's role as caretakers of God's creation, encouraging a lifestyle that honors and preserves the environment. This principle is echoed in modern discussions on environmental stewardship and sustainable living, rooted in the biblical mandate to care for the earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including the instructions in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, including the command for the Sabbath year.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites were to enter and where they were to observe the Sabbath year.

4. Sabbath Year (Shemitah)
A year of rest for the land every seventh year, as commanded by God, to allow the land to rejuvenate.

5. God
The ultimate authority and lawgiver who commands the observance of the Sabbath year as a sign of trust and obedience.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Provision
The command to let the land rest every seventh year required the Israelites to trust that God would provide for their needs. This teaches us to rely on God's provision rather than our own efforts.

Stewardship of Creation
The Sabbath year reflects God's concern for the land and His creation. We are called to be good stewards of the environment, recognizing that the earth belongs to God.

Rest and Renewal
Just as the land needed rest, so do we. Observing regular times of rest and renewal is essential for our spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were to obey God's commands even when it seemed counterintuitive. This challenges us to obey God's Word, trusting that His ways are higher than ours.

Community and Compassion
The Sabbath year provided for the poor and the animals, teaching us the importance of community care and compassion for those in need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Sabbath year challenge our modern understanding of productivity and success?

2. In what ways can we practice trust in God's provision in our daily lives, especially when resources seem scarce?

3. How can we apply the principle of stewardship of creation in our personal and community practices today?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate rest and renewal into our weekly routines?

5. How does the command for the Sabbath year reflect God's heart for justice and compassion, and how can we embody these values in our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 23:10-11
This passage also discusses the Sabbath year, emphasizing the importance of allowing the land to rest and providing for the poor and animals.

Deuteronomy 15:1-2
This scripture expands on the concept of the Sabbath year, including the release of debts, highlighting the theme of liberation and trust in God's provision.

Genesis 2:2-3
The concept of rest is rooted in the creation account, where God rested on the seventh day, establishing a pattern for Sabbath observance.

Hebrews 4:9-10
This New Testament passage speaks of a spiritual rest for the people of God, drawing a parallel to the physical rest commanded in the Old Testament.