Old Testament
Exodus 20:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, you are reminded that you have six days to focus on your work and responsibilities.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
You have 6 days to do all your work,
Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, you are reminded that you have six days to focus on your work and responsibilities. This is a call to be diligent and productive during the week. It emphasizes the importance of managing your time wisely and completing your tasks. The idea is to dedicate these days to your labor, ensuring that you are making the most of your efforts. This verse encourages a balanced approach to life, where work is valued, but it also sets the stage for rest. By working hard during the week, you prepare yourself for a time of rest and rejuvenation. This rhythm of work and rest is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s a reminder that while work is important, it should not consume all your time. Instead, use these six days to accomplish what you need, so you can enjoy a well-deserved break afterward. This balance can lead to greater fulfillment and productivity in your life, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. Embrace this principle as a guide for your daily routine. Explore related sabbath.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 20:9 to your life
Consider how you allocate your time throughout the week. Make a plan to accomplish your tasks efficiently within six days. This will help you create space for rest and relaxation, ensuring you recharge for the next week. Embrace this rhythm for a more fulfilling life balance. Reflect on your work-life balance regularly to maintain harmony in your life.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 20:9 mean?
Exodus 20:9 emphasizes the importance of dedicating six days to work and responsibilities. It encourages diligence and effective time management, reminding us to complete our tasks during the week.
What is the significance of working six days in Exodus 20:9?
The six days of work in Exodus 20:9 highlight the value of productivity and effort. This verse sets a framework for balancing work with rest, suggesting that diligent work prepares us for a necessary period of rejuvenation.
How can I apply Exodus 20:9 to my life?
To apply Exodus 20:9, plan your week to accomplish tasks efficiently within six days. This approach allows you to create time for rest and relaxation, promoting a healthier work-life balance.

The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
Unlock the full Exodus summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Exodus — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 40 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Exodus summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.