Definition: And if ye shall say, What shall we eat the seventh year? behold, we shall not sow, nor gather in our increase:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 25:20. It’s a really important part of how God governs His people and manages the land. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about rest and recovery for the Israelites after a period of intense labor. It’s saying, “After a long time of working hard, we need to take a break – a Sabbath – to rest and recover.” Let's unpack it word by word: “And if ye shall say, What shall we eat the seventh year?” - This is a question, essentially. They’re asking what they will do during the seventh year (which was a time of harvest and plenty) when they’re not working. “behold, we shall not sow, nor gather in our increase:” – This is the core of the verse. “Behold”: This is a way of saying “watch this.” It's a command or warning. “we shall not sow”: They won’t plant crops. It means they won’t be working the land, harvesting food, or engaging in agricultural activities. “nor gather in our increase:” This is the key part. “Increase” refers to the bounty – the harvest, the yield of their labor - that God has given them. So, they're not going to collect the fruits of their labor. What does this mean practically? It’s a promise of rest and renewal for the Israelites. It’s a way for God to provide for them after a period of hard work and allows them time to recover spiritually and physically. It's about taking a break – a day off from their labor to rejuvenate. Why is this important in the Bible? This verse is significant because it shows: God’s Care for His People: He knows that people need rest and recovery. A Covenant with Israel: It's a promise of blessing and provision for them, tied to their faithfulness. In short, this verse describes a period of rest and renewal for the Israelites after a hard harvest. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Leviticus? Connect this verse to a broader theme in the Bible (like Sabbath observance)?