Bible Verse Meaning: Leviticus 25:6
Verse: "And the sabbath of the land shall be meat for you; for thee, and for thy servant, and for thy maid, and for thy hired servant, and for thy stranger that sojourneth with thee." (Leviticus 25:6, KJV)
Summary of Meaning
Leviticus 25:6 is part of the instructions regarding the Sabbatical year, emphasizing the provision and sustenance that God offers during this sacred time. The verse outlines that the land, resting from cultivation, will serve as a source of food for everyone within the community, reflecting a sense of shared responsibility and divine provision.
Bible Verse Commentary Insights
1. Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of rest for the land and highlights God's concern for the sustenance of all people, including servants and strangers. This provision is meant to underscore the core principle of inclusivity and charity within God’s law. Henry also points out that this was not just a commandment but a demonstration of God’s mercy, ensuring no one went hungry.
2. Albert Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes elaborates that this verse signifies that during the Sabbatical year, the land shall not be actively farmed or harvested. The natural growth of the land will provide food for everyone—servants, hired hands, and even the sojourners (foreigners) in Israel's midst. This practice was intended to cultivate a community spirit of generosity and to remind the people of God's providence. Barnes stresses the theological implications of the Sabbath as a time of reliance on God’s provision rather than human effort.
3. Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke provides insight into the socio-economic implications of the verse, detailing how this divine command addressed social justice. By ensuring that all individuals, regardless of status, had access to food during the Sabbatical year, the law promotes an equitable society. Clarke also notes how this directly contradicts hoarding or selfishness, as the commandment to let the land rest ensures that overflowing provision is available to all.
Key Themes and Concepts
- Divine Provision: The verse underscores God's provision for His people and encourages faith in His care, especially during times of resting and waiting.
- Inclusivity: The mention of servants and strangers stresses the inclusivity of God's blessings, emphasizing that His provisions are for everyone, not just the privileged.
- Social Justice: The command serves as a mechanism for social equity, ensuring that no one goes hungry, irrespective of their societal status.
- Rest and Dependence: Emphasizing the need for rest, the verse illustrates a deeper theological message about dependency on God rather than on our labor.
Application for Today
The principles derived from Leviticus 25:6 can be applied in several ways to our modern lives:
- Encouraging Community Sharing: Just as the land yields food for everyone, we are called to share resources within our communities.
- Recognizing God’s Providence: In a fast-paced world, this verse invites us to pause and reflect on how God provides for us during periods of rest.
- Promoting Inclusivity: The call for inclusivity can inspire efforts to include marginalized individuals, ensuring equity in those provisions.
- Understanding Biblical Rest: We can learn from this scripture the value of rest—not just for ourselves but also in how we structure our resources and lifestyle for others.
Bible Cross References
- Exodus 23:10-11 - Discusses the idea of allowing the land to rest and the provision for the poor.
- Leviticus 19:10 - Emphasizes harvesting in a way that allows for others to benefit.
- Deuteronomy 15:7-11 - Addresses the treatment of the poor and the concept of generosity in giving.
Conclusion
Leviticus 25:6 encapsulates a divine blueprint for social justice, provision, and community care. By examining the historical and cultural contexts of this verse through various biblical commentaries, we gain a richer understanding of its implications for both ancient Israel and contemporary society. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s enduring provision and the moral responsibility of believers to care for others.
