Numbers 28:26

KJV

Also in the day of the firstfruits, when ye bring a new meat offering unto the LORD, after your weeks [be out], ye shall have an holy convocation; ye shall do no servile work:

KJV (with Strong's)

Also in the day {H3117} of the firstfruits {H1061}, when ye bring {H7126} a new {H2319} meat offering {H4503} unto the LORD {H3068}, after your weeks {H7620} be out, ye shall have an holy {H6944} convocation {H4744}; ye shall do {H6213} no servile {H5656} work {H4399}:

Complete Jewish Bible

"'On the day of the firstfruits, when you bring a new grain offering to ADONAI in your feast of Shavu'ot, you are to have a holy convocation; do not do any kind of ordinary work;

Berean Standard Bible

On the day of firstfruits, when you present an offering of new grain to the LORD during the Feast of Weeks, you are to hold a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work.

American Standard Version

Also in the day of the first-fruits, when ye offer a new meal-offering unto Jehovah in your feast of weeks, ye shall have a holy convocation; ye shall do no servile work;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 28:26 prescribes the specific requirements for the observance of the Feast of Weeks, known in Hebrew as Shavuot and later as Pentecost, one of ancient Israel's three annual pilgrimage festivals. This verse commands the bringing of a "new meat offering" (a grain offering from the fresh harvest) to the Lord after seven full weeks have passed since the barley firstfruits, signifying a holy convocation where no ordinary labor was permitted. It underscores the community's obligation to acknowledge God's bountiful provision and to consecrate time for corporate worship and grateful rest.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 28-29 constitutes a detailed liturgical calendar, outlining the precise offerings and sacrifices required for daily worship, Sabbaths, New Moons, and the annual feasts. This section follows the census of the second generation of Israelites in the wilderness and instructions for land inheritance, shifting the focus from the people's organization and future settlement to their communal worship life. Numbers 28:26 is specifically embedded within the instructions for the Feast of Weeks, appearing after the regulations for the Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread, and preceding the instructions for the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles. This placement emphasizes the cyclical nature of Israel's worship, marking the progression of the agricultural year and the divine appointments for the nation to gather before the Lord.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Feast of Weeks, or Shavuot, was deeply rooted in the agricultural cycle of ancient Israel, a society heavily dependent on seasonal rains and harvests. It marked the completion of the grain harvest, specifically the wheat harvest, which followed the barley harvest celebrated during Passover. The bringing of "firstfruits" was a common ancient Near Eastern practice, but in Israel, it was imbued with theological significance, acknowledging Yahweh as the sole provider of all sustenance. The command for a "holy convocation" and cessation of "servile work" was characteristic of major biblical feasts, setting aside these days from ordinary life for sacred purposes, communal worship, and reflection on God's covenant faithfulness and provision. This particular feast, occurring fifty days after the Passover barley offering, also became traditionally associated with the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, though this connection is not explicitly stated in the Pentateuchal texts.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 28:26 contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Provision and Human Gratitude**, emphasizing that all blessings, especially the harvest, come from God, necessitating a grateful offering of the "firstfruits." This act of giving acknowledges God's ownership and faithfulness, as seen in the broader principle of honoring God with one's substance and the [firstfruits of all increase](/proverbs/3-9 "Proverbs 3:9 - Honor God with your Firstfruits"). Secondly, the verse underscores the importance of **Sanctification of Time and Communal Worship**. The command for a "holy convocation" and the prohibition of "servile work" set this day apart as sacred, dedicated to corporate worship and spiritual focus, echoing the principles of the Sabbath found throughout the Law, such as in [Exodus 20:10](/exodus/20-10 "Exodus 20:10 - The Sabbath Command"). Thirdly, it reinforces the theme of **Covenant Obedience**. The meticulous details of offerings and observances throughout Numbers 28-29 stress the importance of precise adherence to God's commands as an expression of Israel's covenant relationship with Him, a theme central to the entire Mosaic Law, including the instructions for the annual pilgrimage feasts where all males were to [appear before the Lord](/deuteronomy/16-16 "Deuteronomy 16:16 - Three Annual Feasts").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **"meat offering" (Hebrew, _minchah'_):** In the King James Version, "meat offering" is an archaic translation that refers not to animal flesh but to a grain or meal offering. The Hebrew word _minchah'_ (מִנְחָה) typically denotes a gift, tribute, or offering, often composed of flour, oil, and frankincense, as detailed in [Leviticus 2:1](/leviticus/2-1 "Leviticus 2:1 - The Grain Offering"). The "new" aspect in Numbers 28:26 specifically indicates that this offering was to be made from the freshly harvested grain of the current year, signifying the firstfruits of the new wheat crop.
* **"holy convocation" (Hebrew, _miqra kodesh'_):** This phrase (מִקְרָא קֹדֶשׁ) literally translates to "a calling of holiness" or "a holy assembly." It signifies a divinely appointed and commanded gathering of the community for sacred purposes, emphasizing that God Himself calls His people together for worship, instruction, and communion. These convocations were central to Israel's communal identity and spiritual life.
* **"servile work" (Hebrew, _melecheth abodah'_):** The Hebrew term _melecheth abodah'_ (מְלֶאכֶת עֲבֹדָה) refers to ordinary, laborious, or occupational work—the typical tasks of daily life. The prohibition against such work on designated holy days, including the Feast of Weeks, underscored the sanctity of the day, demanding a cessation of mundane labors to allow for focused spiritual reflection, worship, and rest in God's presence, similar to the Sabbath principle.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Also in the day of the firstfruits,"**: This clause specifies the timing of the observance, referring to the Feast of Weeks (Shavuot/Pentecost), which was known as the "day of the firstfruits" because it marked the bringing of the initial produce of the wheat harvest.
* **"when ye bring a new meat offering unto the LORD,"**: This details the specific offering required for this day—a grain offering made from the freshly harvested wheat. It emphasizes that the offering is "new," signifying it is from the current year's yield, and it is directed "unto the LORD," highlighting its sacred purpose and dedication to God.
* **"after your weeks [be out],"**: This phrase clarifies the precise timing of the Feast of Weeks, indicating that it was to occur after the completion of seven full weeks (49 days) following the presentation of the barley sheaf during the Feast of Unleavened Bread, leading to the 50th day (hence "Pentecost").
* **"ye shall have an holy convocation; ye shall do no servile work:"**: This final clause provides two core commands for the observance of the day: first, the people were to gather in a "holy convocation," a sacred assembly for worship and instruction; and second, they were to perform "no servile work," meaning all ordinary labor was to cease, dedicating the entire day to God and His purposes.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 28:26, as part of the broader legal code in the Pentateuch, primarily employs **Prescriptive Language** and **Direct Command**. The verse is a clear, unambiguous instruction, leaving no room for misinterpretation regarding the requirements for the Feast of Weeks. The use of "ye shall" (or "you shall") is a direct imperative, characteristic of legal and covenantal texts, emphasizing divine authority and the expectation of obedience. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Repetition** (in conjunction with other passages like Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16) to reinforce the importance and specific details of the annual feasts, embedding these observances deeply into the Israelite calendar and consciousness. The concept of "firstfruits" itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing God's ownership of all creation, His faithfulness in providing for His people, and the people's grateful acknowledgment and trust in His continued provision.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 28:26, though rooted in ancient Israelite worship, conveys enduring theological principles that transcend its original context. It powerfully articulates God's sovereignty as the ultimate Provider, demanding that His people acknowledge His beneficence by offering the "firstfruits" of their labor—the best and initial portion—as an act of gratitude and trust. This act of giving is not merely ritualistic but a profound expression of dependence and worship. The command for a "holy convocation" underscores the divine imperative for communal worship, recognizing that gathering together is essential for corporate spiritual growth, instruction, and the reinforcement of covenant identity. The prohibition against "servile work" highlights the sanctity of time, calling believers to intentionally set aside moments for spiritual rest, reflection, and focused devotion to God, recognizing that true rest is found in Him. The meticulous nature of these commands also speaks to the importance of obedience as a tangible expression of faith and love for God.

* [Deuteronomy 16:9-12](/deuteronomy/16-9 "Deuteronomy 16:9-12 - The Feast of Weeks")
* [Exodus 23:16](/exodus/23-16 "Exodus 23:16 - The Feast of Harvest")
* [Leviticus 23:15-21](/leviticus/23-15 "Leviticus 23:15-21 - Instructions for Shavuot")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 28:26 invites contemporary believers to reflect on our relationship with God as Provider and our commitment to worship and spiritual rhythms. In a world that often prioritizes ceaseless productivity and self-sufficiency, the ancient command to offer "firstfruits" challenges us to consider whether we truly acknowledge God as the source of all our blessings. Are we giving Him the best of our time, talents, and resources, or merely what is left over? The call for a "holy convocation" reminds us of the indispensable value of corporate worship and fellowship. Do we prioritize gathering with other believers, recognizing it as a divine appointment for spiritual nourishment and mutual encouragement? Furthermore, the prohibition against "servile work" on this sacred day prompts us to examine our own need for intentional rest and spiritual renewal. In our busy lives, do we carve out sacred space and time to step away from our daily labors, to reflect on God's goodness, and to simply be in His presence? This verse encourages a life marked by gratitude, intentional worship, and a healthy rhythm of work and rest, all rooted in our dependence on God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I offer my "firstfruits" to the Lord today, beyond financial giving?**
* **How does my commitment to "holy convocation" (corporate worship) reflect my understanding of its importance for spiritual growth and community?**
* **What does "no servile work" mean for my spiritual disciplines and rhythms of rest in a modern context?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for God's provision in my daily life?**

### FAQ

**What is the "Feast of Weeks" and how does it relate to "Pentecost"?**

Answer: The "Feast of Weeks" is the English translation of the Hebrew festival *Shavuot* (שָׁבוּעוֹת), meaning "weeks." It is one of the three annual pilgrimage festivals in ancient Israel, celebrated seven weeks (or 49 days) after the Feast of Firstfruits of the barley harvest during Passover week, making it the 50th day. This timing is why it became known as "Pentecost" (πεντηκοστή) in Greek, meaning "fiftieth." Historically, it marked the completion of the grain harvest, specifically the wheat harvest, and was a time to offer the firstfruits of the new crop to the Lord. Later Jewish tradition also associated Shavuot with the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, adding a profound spiritual dimension to its agricultural significance.

**Why was "no servile work" commanded on the Feast of Weeks and other holy days?**

Answer: The command to do "no servile work" (Hebrew: *melecheth abodah*) on the Feast of Weeks and other major holy days served multiple purposes. Primarily, it underscored the sacredness and set-apart nature of the day. By prohibiting ordinary occupational labor, God called His people to cease from their regular pursuits and dedicate the entire day to Him. This allowed for focused participation in the "holy convocation"—communal worship, instruction, and reflection on God's goodness and commands. It also provided a necessary rhythm of rest, reflecting God's own rest on the seventh day of creation and reminding the Israelites that their provision ultimately came from God, not solely from their own toil. This cessation of work was an act of faith, demonstrating trust in God's ability to sustain them even when they paused their labor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Old Testament Feast of Weeks, with its emphasis on firstfruits, new grain, and the counting of weeks culminating in a holy convocation, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament event of Pentecost. Just as the Feast of Weeks celebrated the harvest of grain, the New Testament Pentecost, as recorded in [Acts 2:1-4](/acts/2-1 "Acts 2:1-4 - The Coming of the Holy Spirit"), marked the spiritual harvest of souls as the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples in Jerusalem. This event, occurring precisely on the day of Pentecost, inaugurated the church age, empowering believers to proclaim the gospel and gather a new spiritual harvest from every nation. The "new meat offering" (grain offering) of the Old Covenant foreshadows the new covenant established through Christ's ultimate sacrifice, where believers themselves become a "kind of firstfruits" of God's creation ([James 1:18](/james/1-18 "James 1:18 - We are God's Firstfruits")). Furthermore, if Shavuot traditionally commemorated the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai, then Christian Pentecost signifies the giving of the Spirit, who writes God's law not on tablets of stone but on the hearts of believers ([Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant") and [2 Corinthians 3:6](/2_corinthians/3-6 "2 Corinthians 3:6 - The Spirit gives life")), enabling them to live in obedience and bear spiritual fruit. Thus, the ancient feast, with its commands for worship and rest, points forward to the new life in the Spirit, where believers are empowered to offer their lives as a "living sacrifice" ([Romans 12:1-2](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1-2 - Living Sacrifices")) and experience true rest in Christ.

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

Exodus 34:22

And thou shalt observe the feast of weeks, of the firstfruits of wheat harvest, and the feast of ingathering at the year's end.

Exodus 23:16

And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, [which is] in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field.

Leviticus 23:10

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye be come into the land which I give unto you, and shall reap the harvest thereof, then ye shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest unto the priest:

Leviticus 23:15

¶ And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the sabbath, from the day that ye brought the sheaf of the wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete:

Leviticus 23:21

And ye shall proclaim on the selfsame day, [that] it may be an holy convocation unto you: ye shall do no servile work [therein: it shall be] a statute for ever in all your dwellings throughout your generations.

1 Corinthians 15:20

¶ But now is Christ risen from the dead, [and] become the firstfruits of them that slept.

Deuteronomy 16:9

Seven weeks shalt thou number unto thee: begin to number the seven weeks from [such time as] thou beginnest [to put] the sickle to the corn.