Deuteronomy 5:14

KJV

But the seventh day [is] the sabbath of the LORD thy God: [in it] thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that [is] within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou.

KJV (with Strong's)

But the seventh {H7637} day {H3117} is the sabbath {H7676} of the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430}: in it thou shalt not do {H6213} any work {H4399}, thou, nor thy son {H1121}, nor thy daughter {H1323}, nor thy manservant {H5650}, nor thy maidservant {H519}, nor thine ox {H7794}, nor thine ass {H2543}, nor any of thy cattle {H929}, nor thy stranger {H1616} that is within thy gates {H8179}; that thy manservant {H5650} and thy maidservant {H519} may rest {H5117} as well as thou.

Complete Jewish Bible

but the seventh day is a Shabbat for ADONAI your God. On it you are not to do any kind of work - not you, your son or your daughter, not your male or female slave, not your ox, your donkey or any of your other livestock, and not the foreigner staying with you inside the gates to your property - so that your male and female servants can rest just as you do.

Berean Standard Bible

but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God, on which you must not do any work—neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your ox or donkey or any of your livestock, nor the foreigner within your gates, so that your manservant and maidservant may rest as you do.

American Standard Version

but the seventh day is a sabbath unto Jehovah thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; that thy man-servant and thy maid-servant may rest as well as thou.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 5:14 reiterates the fourth commandment, establishing the seventh day as the Sabbath of the LORD God, a day consecrated for universal cessation from work. This divine ordinance extends beyond the Israelite householder to encompass all members of the household—sons, daughters, male and female servants, livestock, and even the resident stranger—underscoring a profound principle of compassionate rest and social justice rooted in Israel's own experience of liberation from Egyptian bondage.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 5:14 is embedded within Moses' re-delivery of the Ten Commandments to the new generation of Israelites on the plains of Moab, just prior to their entry into the Promised Land. This chapter serves as a foundational covenant renewal, emphasizing the enduring relevance of God's law for the nation's future well-being in the land. While echoing the Decalogue first given at Mount Sinai (referred to as Horeb in Deuteronomy), Moses' presentation in Deuteronomy often includes explanatory or motivational clauses. Specifically, the Sabbath commandment in [Deuteronomy 5:12-15](/deuteronomy/5-12 "Deuteronomy 5:12-15 - The Fourth Commandment") is framed differently than its counterpart in [Exodus 20:8-11](/exodus/20-8 "Exodus 20:8-11 - The Fourth Commandment (Creation Basis)"). While Exodus grounds the Sabbath in God's completed work of creation, Deuteronomy adds a powerful redemptive motivation, directly linking Sabbath observance to Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This contextual shift highlights the ethical and compassionate dimensions of the law.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites, having recently been liberated from centuries of brutal slavery in Egypt, were acutely aware of the burdens of forced labor and the deprivation of rest. This historical experience profoundly shaped their understanding of freedom and justice. In ancient Near Eastern societies, labor was often relentless, and the concept of a regular, universal day of rest was revolutionary. The typical household structure included not only family members but also servants (often acquired through debt or as war captives), and various livestock essential for livelihood. The "stranger" (גֵּר, _ger_) refers to a resident alien, someone who had left their homeland to live among the Israelites, often without the full protections of tribal kinship. The command to extend Sabbath rest to all these categories—including the most vulnerable and dependent members of society—was a radical departure from prevailing norms, reflecting God's unique concern for the oppressed and His desire for Israel to be a society marked by justice and compassion, remembering their own past as strangers and slaves.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 5:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. The most prominent is **Universal Rest and Inclusivity**, demonstrating God's concern for the well-being of all living beings, especially those who might otherwise be exploited. The expansive list—"thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates"—underscores a radical inclusivity that challenges the hierarchical structures of the ancient world. This theme is deeply intertwined with **Compassion and Social Justice**, as the explicit reason given for this broad application is "that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou." Having experienced the harshness of forced labor in Egypt, Israel was commanded to ensure that no one under their authority suffered similar burdens, even for one day a week. This reflects God's own liberating character and His call for His people to embody justice, as seen throughout the law (e.g., [Deuteronomy 24:14-15](/deuteronomy/24-14 "Deuteronomy 24:14-15 - Justice for the Poor and Sojourner")). Finally, the phrase "the sabbath of the LORD thy God" reinforces the theme of **Divine Authority and Covenant Fidelity**. The Sabbath is not merely a practical suggestion but a divine ordinance, a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, calling them to trust in His provision and honor His holy time. This act of obedience was a tangible expression of their loyalty to the God who delivered them (see [Exodus 31:13](/exodus/31-13 "Exodus 31:13 - The Sabbath as a Sign")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sabbath (שַׁבָּת, _shabbat_):** Derived from the verb _shavat_, meaning "to cease, to rest, to stop." It denotes a complete cessation from work or activity. More than just a break, it signifies a sacred time, set apart by God, reflecting His own rest after creation. In this context, it emphasizes an enforced, universal cessation for the entire household, not merely a suggestion for leisure. The Sabbath is "of the LORD thy God," indicating its divine origin and purpose.
* **Stranger (גֵּר, _ger_):** This term refers to a resident alien or sojourner, a non-Israelite who had left their native land and settled among the Israelite community. Unlike a casual visitor, the _ger_ had a semi-permanent status and was often vulnerable, lacking tribal land or family support. The explicit inclusion of the _ger_ in the Sabbath command highlights the radical inclusivity and compassionate nature of God's law, extending divine provision and protection even to those outside the covenant community, mirroring Israel's own experience as strangers in Egypt.
* **Rest (נוּחַ, _nuach_):** While not the direct noun for Sabbath, the verb _nuach_ is used at the end of the verse: "that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest (_nuach_) as well as thou." _Nuach_ signifies not just physical inactivity but also a sense of tranquility, peace, and security. It implies refreshment and restoration, a release from burden. The command ensures that this profound, God-ordained rest is experienced by all, emphasizing equity and shared well-being within the community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the seventh day [is] the sabbath of the LORD thy God:"** This opening clause firmly establishes the divine ownership and sacred nature of the seventh day. It is not merely a human custom or a practical arrangement, but a day specifically designated by Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. This immediately elevates its importance and underscores the theological foundation of the command.
* **"[in it] thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that [is] within thy gates;"** This is the prohibitive core of the commandment, detailing the absolute cessation of work and, critically, the expansive scope of its application. The prohibition begins with the householder ("thou") and systematically extends to every category of dependent within their sphere of influence: immediate family (son, daughter), human laborers (manservant, maidservant), draft animals (ox, ass, any cattle), and finally, the resident alien ("stranger that is within thy gates"). This comprehensive enumeration leaves no room for exclusion, emphasizing the universal nature of the required rest.
* **"that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou."** This concluding clause provides the explicit motivation and ethical rationale for the command's broad application. It reveals God's heart for social justice and compassion. The purpose of the universal rest is not merely convenience or ritual, but the well-being and equitable treatment of all, particularly those who are often exploited or overworked. By ensuring that servants and others experience rest "as well as thou," the command fosters empathy and reminds Israel of their own history as slaves who longed for such relief.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 5:14 employs several powerful **Literary Devices** to convey its message. The most prominent is **Emphatic Enumeration**, where the verse meticulously lists every category of person and animal within the household who must observe the Sabbath. This detailed listing ("nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger") serves to underscore the absolute and universal reach of the commandment, leaving no room for exceptions or loopholes. This is further reinforced by a subtle form of **Anaphora**, the repeated use of "nor thy" which rhythmically emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the prohibition. The verse also utilizes a **Motivation Clause** ("that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou") which provides the ethical and theological rationale behind the command. This teleological statement transforms the prohibition from a mere rule into a principle rooted in compassion and justice, inviting the hearer to consider the welfare of others. Finally, the structure itself creates a form of **Inclusio**, beginning with "thou shalt not do any work, thou" and concluding with "may rest as well as thou," framing the extensive list of dependents within the householder's own experience of rest, thereby reinforcing the shared nature of the Sabbath blessing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Sabbath commandment in Deuteronomy 5:14 is a profound theological statement, intricately woven into the fabric of God's character and His covenant relationship with Israel. It is not merely a legalistic observance but a tangible expression of trust in God's provision and a radical commitment to justice and compassion. By commanding rest for all, including the most vulnerable, God demonstrates His own liberating nature and calls His people to reflect His heart. The Sabbath becomes a weekly reminder of both creation (God's sovereign work) and redemption (God's deliverance from bondage), serving as a sign of the covenant and a foretaste of ultimate rest. It teaches dependence on God rather than relentless human striving, fostering a rhythm of work and rest that honors divine order and human dignity.

* [Exodus 20:8-11](/exodus/20-8 "Exodus 20:8-11 - The Fourth Commandment (Creation Basis)")
* [Leviticus 25:1-7](/leviticus/25-1 "Leviticus 25:1-7 - The Sabbath Year and Land Rest")
* [Isaiah 58:13-14](/isaiah/58-13 "Isaiah 58:13-14 - Sabbath as Delight and Blessing")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 5:14 transcends its ancient context, offering timeless principles for contemporary life. In a world often driven by relentless productivity and constant busyness, this verse calls us back to the divine rhythm of rest. It challenges us to recognize that true productivity is not endless toil but a balanced life that honors God's design for rest and renewal. Beyond personal well-being, the commandment compels us to consider the welfare of those around us, particularly those who may be vulnerable or dependent. It asks us to examine our workplaces, our homes, and our communities to ensure that compassion and opportunities for rest are extended to all, reflecting God's heart for justice. Embracing the spirit of the Sabbath means cultivating a posture of trust in God's provision, acknowledging that our worth is not solely defined by our output, and actively creating space for spiritual and physical refreshment, not just for ourselves but for everyone within our sphere of influence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my current rhythm of life reflect or neglect the principle of rest articulated in Deuteronomy 5:14?**
* **In what specific ways can I extend the principle of compassionate rest and justice to those under my influence, whether in my family, workplace, or community?**
* **What does it mean for me to truly "rest as well as" others, and how can I practically facilitate that for those around me?**
* **How can observing a regular time of cessation from work deepen my trust in God's provision and remind me of His liberating power in my life?**

### FAQ
**Is the Sabbath still binding for Christians today?**

Answer: While the specific Mosaic Law regarding the Sabbath (observance on the seventh day, prohibitions against certain activities) is understood by most Christians to have been fulfilled in Christ, the underlying principles remain profoundly relevant. The New Testament teaches that Christ is the "Lord of the Sabbath" ([Mark 2:27-28](/mark/2-27 "Mark 2:27-28 - Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath")) and that the ceremonial aspects of the law, including specific holy days, were a "shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ" ([Colossians 2:16-17](/colossians/2-16 "Colossians 2:16-17 - Shadow and Reality in Christ")). Therefore, Christians are not under the legalistic obligation to observe the Sabbath on a specific day in the same way ancient Israel was. However, the enduring principles of the Sabbath—regular rest, worship, trust in God's provision, and compassionate care for others—are vital. [Hebrews 4:9-11](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-11 - The Sabbath Rest for the People of God") speaks of a "Sabbath rest" that remains for the people of God, which is found in Christ and His finished work, and which believers enter into through faith. This encourages a lifestyle of spiritual and physical rest, acknowledging God's sovereignty and our dependence on Him.

**Why does Deuteronomy give a different reason for the Sabbath than Exodus?**

Answer: The reasons for Sabbath observance in [Exodus 20:11](/exodus/20-11 "Exodus 20:11 - Sabbath based on Creation") and Deuteronomy 5:15 are complementary, not contradictory. Exodus grounds the Sabbath in the **creation narrative**, reminding Israel that God rested on the seventh day after His work of creation, establishing a universal pattern for all humanity. This emphasizes God's sovereignty and the inherent goodness of His created order. Deuteronomy, however, adds a **redemptive and ethical dimension**, explicitly linking the Sabbath to Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt: "And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the LORD thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day" ([Deuteronomy 5:15](/deuteronomy/5-15 "Deuteronomy 5:15 - Sabbath based on Redemption")). This Deuteronomic emphasis highlights the ethical imperative of the Sabbath: because Israel experienced liberation from forced labor, they were commanded to extend that same freedom and rest to all within their community, especially the vulnerable like servants and strangers. Both reasons are foundational, demonstrating God's character as both Creator and Redeemer, and providing both a cosmic and a historical basis for the Sabbath command.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 5:14, with its emphasis on universal rest and compassionate liberation, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus. He is the ultimate "Lord of the Sabbath" ([Mark 2:27-28](/mark/2-27 "Mark 2:27-28 - Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath")), demonstrating its true purpose by healing and doing good on the Sabbath, revealing that the day was made for humanity's benefit, not as a burdensome legalistic yoke. More significantly, Jesus offers the weary and heavy-laden the ultimate rest—a spiritual rest from the striving of works-righteousness and the burdens of sin ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Jesus' Invitation to Rest")). His completed work on the cross provides the true cessation (Sabbath) from our own efforts to earn salvation, inviting us into God's promised rest ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - Entering God's Rest")). Just as the Sabbath in Deuteronomy extended rest to the vulnerable and the stranger, Christ's work extends salvation and spiritual rest to all who believe, regardless of their background or status, breaking down barriers and offering true freedom from the ultimate bondage of sin. He embodies the compassionate heart of God, bringing the liberating rest foreshadowed in the Old Testament command to its glorious reality.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 4:4

For he spake in a certain place of the seventh [day] on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.

Genesis 2:2

And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.

Exodus 23:12

Six days thou shalt do thy work, and on the seventh day thou shalt rest: that thine ox and thine ass may rest, and the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, may be refreshed.

Exodus 16:29

See, for that the LORD hath given you the sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two days; abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day.

Exodus 16:30

So the people rested on the seventh day.

Nehemiah 5:5

Yet now our flesh [is] as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and [some] of our daughters are brought unto bondage [already]: neither [is it] in our power [to redeem them]; for other men have our lands and vineyards.

Nehemiah 13:21

Then I testified against them, and said unto them, Why lodge ye about the wall? if ye do [so] again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no [more] on the sabbath.