Topical Encyclopedia An anniversary is a date that is remembered or celebrated because a special event occurred on that date in a previous year. In the context of the Bible, anniversaries are not explicitly mentioned as a regular practice, but the concept of remembering significant events is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative.Biblical Foundations The Bible places a strong emphasis on remembering and commemorating significant events, which can be seen as a precursor to the modern concept of anniversaries. One of the most notable examples is the Passover, an annual event instituted by God for the Israelites to remember their deliverance from Egypt. In Exodus 12:14 , God commands, "This day is to be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD; as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come." Similarly, the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) and the Feast of Tabernacles are other examples of annual celebrations that commemorate significant events in Israel's history (Leviticus 23:15-16, 23:34). These feasts served as reminders of God's provision and faithfulness. Marriage Anniversaries While the Bible does not specifically mention the celebration of marriage anniversaries, the institution of marriage is highly esteemed. Genesis 2:24 states, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." The lifelong covenant between a husband and wife is a reflection of Christ's relationship with the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32). Celebrating a marriage anniversary can be seen as a way to honor this sacred covenant and to reflect on God's faithfulness in the marital relationship. Spiritual Significance Anniversaries can serve as spiritual milestones, providing an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and recommitment. In the Bible, the act of remembering is often linked with spiritual renewal. For instance, in Joshua 4:7 , after crossing the Jordan River, the Israelites set up stones as a memorial: "These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever." Such acts of remembrance were intended to inspire faith and obedience in future generations. Modern Observance In contemporary Christian practice, anniversaries—whether of personal events like weddings or significant spiritual milestones—are often marked by thanksgiving, prayer, and reflection. They provide an opportunity to recount God's blessings and to seek His guidance for the future. While not mandated by Scripture, the observance of anniversaries can be a meaningful way to acknowledge God's ongoing work in the lives of individuals and communities. Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly command the celebration of anniversaries as we understand them today, the principles of remembrance and commemoration are deeply rooted in Scripture. These practices serve as reminders of God's faithfulness and as opportunities for spiritual reflection and renewal. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Returning with the year, at a stated time; annual; yearly; as, an anniversary feast.2. (n.) The annual return of the day on which any notable event took place, or is wont to be celebrated; as, the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 3. (n.) The day on which Mass is said yearly for the soul of a deceased person; the commemoration of some sacred event, as the dedication of a church or the consecration of a pope. 4. (n.) The celebration which takes place on an anniversary day. Library It was the Fifth Anniversary of that Resolution of the Senate ... For a Religious Anniversary. For a Temperance Anniversary. Anniversary Hymn. Anniversary Hymn. Anniversary of Independence. For a Sunday School Anniversary. For the Renewal of Anniversary Blessings. Sabbath School Anniversary. Anniversary of a Charitable Association. Thesaurus Anniversary (1 Occurrence)... 1. (a.) Returning with the year, at a stated time; annual; yearly; as, an anniversary feast. ... 4. (n.) The celebration which takes place on an anniversary day. ... /a/anniversary.htm - 7k Birthday (4 Occurrences) Fast (157 Occurrences) Fasts (3 Occurrences) Feasts (45 Occurrences) Oration (1 Occurrence) Jubilee (25 Occurrences) Feast (209 Occurrences) Return (499 Occurrences) Day (17670 Occurrences) Resources Who was Thérèse of Lisieux? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Moravian Church? | GotQuestions.org What sort of condolences should a Christian give someone who is hurting after the death of a loved one? | GotQuestions.org Anniversary: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Anniversary (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 16:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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