Exodus 34:21
Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest: in earing time and in harvest thou shalt rest.
Exodus 34:21 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest: in earing time and in harvest thou shalt rest," emphasizes the importance of rest and work-life balance. In biblical times, the concept of a day of rest was sacred and essential for spiritual and physical rejuvenation. By working six days and resting on the seventh, individuals were able to honor God's commandments and find time for relaxation and reflection. This verse also highlights the significance of respecting the natural rhythms of life, as even during busy planting and harvesting seasons, it was crucial to take a day of rest. This principle of balancing work and rest is timeless and serves as a reminder for individuals to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy lifestyle. By understanding and following this verse, individuals can experience the benefits of rest and work more efficiently and effectively in the long run.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse "Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest: in earing time and in harvest thou shalt rest." emphasizes the significance of rest and Sabbath observance in the Old Testament. This verse is part of the Ten Commandments given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, highlighting the importance of setting aside one day a week for rest and worship. The concept of rest on the seventh day is rooted in the creation account in Genesis, where God rested on the seventh day after completing his work of creation. This verse also highlights the importance of trusting in God's provision during planting and harvest seasons, by taking a day of rest even in the midst of busy agricultural work. The word "earing" in this verse refers to plowing or tilling the land, emphasizing the rest required even during the crucial time of preparing the soil for planting. Overall, this verse underscores the balance between work and rest, and the importance of honoring God by observing the Sabbath.
Exodus 34:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest: in plowing time and in harvest thou shalt rest.
World English Bible
“Six days you shall work, but on the seventh day you shall rest: in plowing time and in harvest you shall rest.
Douay-Rheims
Six days shalt thou work, the seventh day thou shalt cease to plough and to reap.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Six dayes shalt thou worke, and in the seuenth day thou shalt rest: both in earing time, and in the haruest thou shalt rest.