Numbers 28:18

In the first day [shall be] an holy convocation; ye shall do no manner of servile work [therein]:

In the first {H7223} day {H3117} shall be an holy {H6944} convocation {H4744}; ye shall do {H6213} no manner of servile {H5656} work {H4399} therein:

The first day is to be a holy convocation: do not do any kind of ordinary work;

On the first day there is to be a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work.

In the first day shall be a holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work;

Commentary

Numbers 28:18 is part of a larger section detailing God's instructions to Moses concerning the annual feasts and offerings for the Israelites. This particular verse focuses on the regulations for the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a pivotal observance in Israelite worship.

Context

This verse specifically addresses the first day of the seven-day Feast of Unleavened Bread, which immediately followed the Passover sacrifice (Exodus 12). The entire period was a solemn commemoration of God's miraculous deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. Each day of the feast had specific sacrificial requirements, and certain days, like this first one, were designated as particularly sacred, requiring a special assembly and cessation of ordinary work.

Key Themes

  • Sacred Assembly and Rest: The phrase "an holy convocation" signifies a mandatory, sacred gathering for worship and remembrance. The prohibition against "servile work" underscores the sanctity of the day, setting it apart from common days. It was a day dedicated wholly to the Lord, emphasizing spiritual focus over worldly labor.
  • Obedience to Divine Command: Adherence to these detailed laws was a fundamental aspect of Israel's covenant relationship with God. It was a perpetual reminder of His mighty acts and their commitment to His ways.
  • Remembrance of Deliverance: The entire Feast of Unleavened Bread was a tangible reminder of the haste with which Israel left Egypt, not having time for their bread to rise. Abstaining from servile work on this day reinforced the idea of divine provision and rest from their former bondage.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "holy convocation" translates the Hebrew miqra kodesh, which literally means "a calling of holiness" or "a sacred assembly." It emphasizes that the gathering was not by human choice but by divine summons. The term "servile work" is from the Hebrew meleket avodah, referring to burdensome, occupational labor. This prohibition ensured that the focus remained on spiritual matters and communal worship, distinct from the daily grind of earning a living.

Practical Application

While specific Mosaic laws like these are not binding on New Testament believers in the same way, the underlying principles hold profound spiritual significance. This verse reminds us of:

  • The Importance of Setting Apart Time for God: Just as Israel set aside specific days for worship and rest, believers today are called to prioritize spiritual disciplines, communal worship, and times of rest from our daily labors. This honors God and refreshes our souls.
  • Remembering Our Spiritual Deliverance: For Christians, the Passover and Unleavened Bread feasts foreshadow Christ as our Passover Lamb, who has delivered us from the bondage of sin. We are called to live a life free from the "leaven" of malice and wickedness (1 Corinthians 5:8).
  • Rest in God's Provision: The command to cease servile work also speaks to trusting God for provision and recognizing that true rest comes from Him, not from our incessant striving.
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Cross-References

  • Exodus 12:16

    And in the first day [there shall be] an holy convocation, and in the seventh day there shall be an holy convocation to you; no manner of work shall be done in them, save [that] which every man must eat, that only may be done of you.

  • Leviticus 23:7

    In the first day ye shall have an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein.

  • Leviticus 23:8

    But ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD seven days: in the seventh day [is] an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work [therein].
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