Leviticus 23:2

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, [Concerning] the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim [to be] holy convocations, [even] these [are] my feasts.

Speak {H1696} unto the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, and say {H559} unto them, Concerning the feasts {H4150} of the LORD {H3068}, which ye shall proclaim {H7121} to be holy {H6944} convocations {H4744}, even these are my feasts {H4150}.

"Tell the people of Isra'el: 'The designated times of ADONAI which you are to proclaim as holy convocations are my designated times.

“Speak to the Israelites and say to them, ‘These are My appointed feasts, the feasts of the LORD that you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies.

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, The set feasts of Jehovah, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my set feasts.

Commentary

Leviticus chapter 23 introduces the detailed calendar of religious observances that God commanded the children of Israel to follow. Verse 2 serves as the foundational statement for this list, declaring the divine origin and sacred nature of these appointed times.

Context

This verse stands at the beginning of Leviticus 23, a chapter dedicated entirely to outlining the "feasts of the LORD." Coming after regulations concerning clean and unclean things and the priesthood, this chapter shifts focus to the collective worship life of the nation, providing a structure and rhythm for their year centered around God's appointments.

Key Themes

The primary theme is God's sovereignty over time and His initiative in establishing specific periods for worship and communion with His people. It highlights the concept of holy time – time set apart by God for sacred purposes. The verse also emphasizes communal worship, as these feasts were to be "holy convocations," requiring the assembly of the community. Fundamentally, it underscores that these are not human traditions but "my feasts," belonging to the LORD Himself, demonstrating His covenant relationship with Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "feasts" is mo'ed (מוֹעֵד), which is better understood as "appointed time," "appointed place," or "meeting." It signifies a specific time or place designated for a meeting, often a meeting with God. This is distinct from a casual celebration. "Holy convocations" translates miqra kodesh (מִקְרָא קֹדֶשׁ). Miqra comes from the verb meaning "to call" or "to summon," and kodesh means "holy." Thus, it means a "holy calling together" or a "sacred assembly," emphasizing that these gatherings were commanded by God and set apart for Him, reflecting Israel's identity as a holy nation called by God.

Practical Application

While the specific requirements of these Old Testament feasts are not binding on Christians today (many of which found their fulfillment in Christ), the principle of setting apart time for God remains vital. This verse reminds us that God values dedicated time for worship, reflection, and communal gathering. It challenges us to consider how we prioritize God in our schedules, recognizing the importance of both personal devotion and assembling together as believers for "holy convocations" in our own context.

Cross-References

Numbers 28-29 provides additional details on the sacrifices and offerings required during these appointed feasts.

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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 23:37 (6 votes)

    These [are] the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim [to be] holy convocations, to offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD, a burnt offering, and a meat offering, a sacrifice, and drink offerings, every thing upon his day:

  • Leviticus 23:4 (6 votes)

    ¶ These [are] the feasts of the LORD, [even] holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons.

  • Psalms 81:3 (3 votes)

    Blow up the trumpet in the new moon, in the time appointed, on our solemn feast day.

  • Numbers 10:10 (3 votes)

    Also in the day of your gladness, and in your solemn days, and in the beginnings of your months, ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over the sacrifices of your peace offerings; that they may be to you for a memorial before your God: I [am] the LORD your God.

  • Joel 2:15 (3 votes)

    Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly:

  • Numbers 29:39 (3 votes)

    These [things] ye shall do unto the LORD in your set feasts, beside your vows, and your freewill offerings, for your burnt offerings, and for your meat offerings, and for your drink offerings, and for your peace offerings.

  • Exodus 23:14 (3 votes)

    Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto me in the year.