Exodus 20:10
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, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:
Exodus 20:10 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse emphasizes the importance of observing the Sabbath day as a day of rest and worship dedicated to the Lord. It instructs individuals to refrain from any work on the seventh day, including their family members, employees, and even their animals. This commandment was given to the Israelites as a way to honor and remember the creation story in which God rested on the seventh day after creating the world in six days. By observing the Sabbath, individuals demonstrate their trust in God's provision and authority over their lives. Additionally, the Sabbath serves as a time of spiritual renewal, reflection, and connection with God. It is a time to set aside worldly concerns and focus on one's relationship with the Lord. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize worship and rest in a busy and demanding world, allowing individuals to recharge physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse emphasizes the importance of honoring the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship. The word "sabbath" signifies a period of rest and cessation from labor, specifically set aside by God for His people. By observing the Sabbath, individuals demonstrate their obedience to God and recognize His authority over all aspects of their lives. The verse also highlights the inclusive nature of the Sabbath commandment, extending not only to family members but also to servants, animals, and even foreigners living among the community. This underscores the universal reach of God's covenant and the principle of equality and justice in His kingdom. The word "work" in this context encompasses both physical labor and any activities that detract from worship and reflection on God's goodness. Thus, the Sabbath serves as a time of spiritual renewal and connection with the divine, fostering a deeper relationship with the Lord and a sense of community among believers.
Exodus 20:10 in other translations
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, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:
World English Bible
but the seventh day is a Sabbath to Yahweh your God. You shall not do any work in it, you, nor your son, nor your daughter, your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your livestock, nor your stranger who is within your gates;
Douay-Rheims
But on the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: thou shalt do no work on it, thou nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy beast, nor the stranger that is within thy gates.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But the seuenth day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any worke, thou, nor thy sonne, nor thy daughter, thy man seruant, nor thy mayde, nor thy beast, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates.