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Numbers 28:26

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:

Numbers 28:26 · King James Version

Meaning

When the verse refers to "the day of the firstfruits," it is speaking about a specific Jewish holiday known as Shavuot. This holiday, also known as the Feast of Weeks, is observed seven weeks after Passover and commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. The offering of new grain is a symbolic way to give thanks to God for the harvest and to acknowledge His provision. The holy convocation mentioned in the verse is a sacred assembly called to gather and worship the Lord together. During this time, the people are instructed to set aside their regular work and focus on spiritual matters. By refraining from servile work, they are demonstrating their dedication to God and their commitment to honoring Him above all else. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize worship and rest in the midst of busyness and daily responsibilities.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the focus is on the day of the firstfruits, a significant occasion in the Old Testament. The firstfruits were a symbol of dedicating the first and best of the produce to the Lord, acknowledging His provision and sovereignty. The mention of a new meat offering being brought to the Lord emphasizes the idea of offering the best to God as a form of worship and gratitude. The holy convocation mentioned signifies a gathering of the people for a sacred assembly, where they would come together for worship and celebration. The instruction to refrain from doing servile work on this day underscores the importance of setting aside time to focus on honoring and worshipping God. This verse highlights the themes of consecration, gratitude, worship, and rest, all of which are key elements in the relationship between God and His people.

Numbers 28:26 in other translations

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;

World English Bible

“‘Also in the day of the first fruits, when you offer a new meal offering to Yahweh in your feast of weeks, you shall have a holy convocation. You shall do no regular work;

Douay-Rheims

The day also of firstfruits, when after the weeks are accomplished, you shall offer new fruits to the Lord, shall be venerable and holy: you shall do no servile work therein.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Also in the day of your first fruits, when ye bring a newe meate offring vnto the Lord, according to your weekes ye shall haue an holy conuocation, and ye shall do no seruile worke in it: