Old Testament
Exodus 23:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Work for six days, but rest on the seventh day so that your ox and donkey can rest, and the son of your maidservant and the foreigner among you can be refreshed.
Compare translations
Six days thou shalt do thy work, and on the seventh day thou shalt rest: that thine ox and thine ass may rest, and the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, may be refreshed.
What Exodus 23:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of rest in our lives. After working for six days, we are encouraged to take a break on the seventh day. This rest is not just for ourselves but also for our animals and those who work for us. It highlights the value of caring for others, including our servants and strangers in our community. By allowing everyone to rest, we create an environment where everyone can recharge and feel valued. This principle of rest is essential for maintaining balance in our busy lives. It reminds us that taking time off is not just a luxury but a necessity for our well-being and the well-being of those around us. In a world that often prioritizes constant work, this verse calls us to pause and reflect on the importance of rest and refreshment for all. It’s a reminder that we are all interconnected and that our actions can uplift others, creating a more compassionate community. Rest is a gift we give ourselves and others, fostering a sense of renewal and connection.
How to apply Exodus 23:12 to your life
Consider setting aside one day each week for rest and reflection. Use this time to recharge and connect with family and friends. Remember to extend this practice to those around you, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate together. This can strengthen your relationships and community bonds. Embrace the idea that rest is essential for everyone’s well-being!
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 23:12
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 23:12
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 23:12 teach about rest?
Exodus 23:12 emphasizes the importance of taking a day of rest after six days of work. It highlights that rest is not only for ourselves but also for our animals and those who work for us, including servants and foreigners. This verse underscores the value of caring for others and creating a balanced environment where everyone can recharge and feel valued.
How can I apply Exodus 23:12 in my life?
To apply Exodus 23:12, consider designating one day each week for rest and reflection. Use this time to disconnect from work, recharge, and spend quality time with family and friends. Ensure that those around you also have the opportunity to rest, fostering a supportive community where everyone can rejuvenate together.
Why is rest important according to Exodus 23:12?
Rest is important according to Exodus 23:12 because it allows individuals and animals to recover from the demands of work. The verse teaches that taking time off is essential for well-being, promoting a balanced life. It also reflects the interconnectedness of our community, reminding us that caring for others' needs is just as vital as our own.
What does the term 'foreigner' mean in Exodus 23:12?
In Exodus 23:12, the term 'foreigner' refers to individuals who are not part of the Israelite community but reside among them. This inclusion emphasizes the importance of compassion and care for all people, regardless of their background, highlighting the need to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to rest and be refreshed.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.