Topical Bible: The Feast of Jubilee: Proclaimed by Trumpets

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Feast of Jubilee, also known simply as the Jubilee, is a significant event in the biblical calendar, deeply rooted in the laws given to the Israelites. It is primarily detailed in the Book of Leviticus and is a time of liberation and restoration, occurring every fiftieth year. The Jubilee is marked by the sounding of trumpets, symbolizing the commencement of this sacred time.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for the Jubilee is found in Leviticus 25:8-12 : "You are to count off seven sabbaths of years—seven times seven years—so that the seven sabbaths of years amount to forty-nine years. Then you shall sound the ram’s horn abroad on the tenth day of the seventh month; on the Day of Atonement you shall sound the horn throughout your land. So you are to consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty in the land for all its inhabitants. It shall be a Jubilee for you, when each of you is to return to his property and each of you to his clan. The fiftieth year will be a Jubilee for you; you are not to sow or reap what grows by itself or harvest the untended vines."

Proclamation by Trumpets

The Jubilee is proclaimed by the sounding of trumpets, specifically the ram's horn, or shofar, on the Day of Atonement. This act of proclamation is significant, as it not only marks the beginning of the Jubilee year but also serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and divine intervention. The trumpet blast is a call to the people, reminding them of God's sovereignty and the restoration He provides.

Themes of Liberation and Restoration

The Jubilee embodies themes of liberation and restoration. It is a time when debts are forgiven, slaves are set free, and land is returned to its original owners. This practice underscores the belief that the land ultimately belongs to God and that His people are merely stewards of His creation. The Jubilee serves as a reminder of God's provision and the importance of justice and mercy within the community.

Social and Economic Implications

The Jubilee had profound social and economic implications for the Israelite society. By resetting economic disparities and restoring familial lands, it aimed to prevent the accumulation of wealth and power in the hands of a few. This system was designed to promote equality and ensure that every family had the opportunity to thrive. It reflects God's concern for the poor and marginalized, emphasizing the need for compassion and fairness.

Spiritual Significance

Spiritually, the Jubilee points to the ultimate redemption and freedom found in God. It foreshadows the coming of Christ, who proclaimed liberty to the captives and the year of the Lord's favor (Luke 4:18-19). The Jubilee serves as a powerful metaphor for the salvation and restoration offered through Jesus, highlighting the hope of eternal freedom and the restoration of all things.

Observance and Legacy

While the practical observance of the Jubilee as described in Leviticus may not be evident in historical records, its principles have left a lasting legacy. The concept of Jubilee has influenced various Christian teachings and social justice movements, inspiring efforts to address inequality and promote reconciliation. The Jubilee remains a profound symbol of God's desire for a just and compassionate society, rooted in His love and grace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Leviticus 25:9
Then shall you cause the trumpet of the jubilee to sound on the tenth day of the seventh month, in the day of atonement shall you make the trumpet sound throughout all your land.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 89:15
Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of your countenance.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Jewish War and the Destruction of Jerusalem. AD 70
... appeared in the city at the Feast of Tabernacles ... The shout of victory and the jubilee
of the ... offered their sacrifices to them, and proclaimed Titus Imperator ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 38 the jewish war.htm

On Pentecost.
... those of years to what they call the Jubilee, which also ... To-day let us keep the feast;
to-morrow will ... This was proclaimed by the Prophets in such passages as ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xli on pentecost.htm

The Book of Jubilees
... 24:18 ff.; the use of the jubilee periods was ... The feast of Tabernacles is to be
celebrated with garlands ... to Joseph, Genesis 41:43, it is proclaimed before him ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the book of jubilees.htm