Topical Encyclopedia The concept of appointed feasts is deeply rooted in the religious and cultural practices of the ancient Israelites, as outlined in the Hebrew Scriptures. These feasts, also known as "moedim" in Hebrew, were divinely instituted times of assembly and worship, serving as both commemorative and prophetic events in the life of Israel. The appointed feasts are primarily detailed in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.Biblical Foundation The appointed feasts are first introduced in the book of Leviticus, where God commands Moses to establish these sacred times for the Israelites. Leviticus 23:1-2 states, "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Speak to the Israelites and say to them: These are My appointed feasts, the feasts of the LORD, which you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies.'" This passage underscores the divine origin and authority of these feasts, marking them as times set apart for worship and reflection. Major Appointed Feasts 1. Passover (Pesach) and the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzot): Passover commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage, as described in Exodus 12. It is immediately followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a seven-day observance during which no leavened bread is consumed. Leviticus 23:5-6 notes, "The Passover to the LORD begins at twilight on the fourteenth day of the first month. On the fifteenth day of the same month begins the Feast of Unleavened Bread to the LORD." 2. Feast of Weeks (Shavuot or Pentecost): Celebrated fifty days after the Passover, this feast marks the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and the first fruits of the wheat harvest. Leviticus 23:15-16 instructs, "From the day after the Sabbath, the day you brought the sheaf of the wave offering, you are to count seven full weeks. You shall count fifty days until the day after the seventh Sabbath, and then present an offering of new grain to the LORD." 3. Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah): This feast, observed on the first day of the seventh month, is a day of rest and trumpet blasts, signaling the beginning of the civil new year. Leviticus 23:24 commands, "In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you are to have a day of rest, a sacred assembly announced by trumpet blasts." 4. Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): Occurring on the tenth day of the seventh month, this solemn day is dedicated to atonement and repentance. Leviticus 23:27 states, "The tenth day of this seventh month is the Day of Atonement. You are to hold a sacred assembly and humble yourselves, and present an offering made by fire to the LORD." 5. Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): This week-long feast begins on the fifteenth day of the seventh month and commemorates the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. Leviticus 23:34 instructs, "On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, the LORD’s Feast of Tabernacles begins, and it continues for seven days." Theological Significance The appointed feasts hold profound theological significance, serving as both historical remembrances and prophetic foreshadowings. They remind the Israelites of God's past deliverance and provision while pointing forward to future fulfillment in the Messianic age. For Christians, these feasts are often seen as typological, with Christ fulfilling their ultimate meaning. For instance, the Apostle Paul refers to Christ as "our Passover lamb" in 1 Corinthians 5:7 , highlighting the redemptive work of Jesus as the fulfillment of the Passover sacrifice. Observance and Legacy While the observance of these feasts has evolved over time, they remain integral to Jewish religious life and continue to be celebrated by many Jewish communities worldwide. In the Christian tradition, the feasts are often studied for their rich symbolism and prophetic insights, providing a deeper understanding of God's redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture. Torrey's Topical Textbook Leviticus 23:2Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them, Concerning the feasts of the LORD, which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my feasts. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 1:14 Library On Attending the Church Service The Woman of Samaria "To what Purpose is the Multitude of Your Sacrifices unto Me? ... The Last Supper. Acts vii. 35 Letter iv. --For 332. Easter-Day vii Pharmuthi , iv Non. Apr. ... The Church of Jerusalem and the Labors of Peter. The Preacher as a Patriot. The Catholic Apostolic Church (Called Irvingites. ) The Sovereignty of God in Operation Resources Questions about the Church (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the first / original church? 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