Old Testament

Leviticus 25:4

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Leviticus 25:4, God commands the Israelites to observe a Sabbath year every seventh year, where the land must rest.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

But the 7th year must be a Sabbath of complete rest for the land — a Sabbath to the LORD. You must not plant your fields or prune your vineyards.

KJVKing James Version

But in the seventh year shall be a sabbath of rest unto the land, a sabbath for the LORD: thou shalt neither sow thy field, nor prune thy vineyard.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Leviticus 25:4, God commands the Israelites to observe a Sabbath year every seventh year, where the land must rest. This means they should not plant crops or prune vineyards during this time. The purpose of this command is to allow the land to rejuvenate and recover from continuous farming. It emphasizes the importance of rest, not just for people but also for the earth. This practice reflects a deep respect for God's creation and acknowledges that the land belongs to Him. By resting the land, the Israelites demonstrate their trust in God to provide for their needs, even when they are not actively farming. This principle of rest can also be seen as a way to promote sustainability and stewardship of natural resources, ensuring that the land remains fertile for future generations. Overall, this command highlights the balance between work and rest, and the need to honor God's rhythms in creation.

Key themes

Related topics

sabbath, stewardship, trust

How to apply Leviticus 25:4 to your life

In our busy lives, we can learn from the Sabbath year by taking regular breaks to rest and recharge. This can mean setting aside time for rest, reflection, and spiritual renewal. By doing so, we acknowledge our dependence on God and the importance of caring for our environment.

Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Leviticus 25:4 mean?

Leviticus 25:4 instructs the Israelites to observe a Sabbath year every seventh year, during which the land must rest. This means they should not plant crops or prune vineyards, allowing the land to rejuvenate.

What is the significance of the Sabbath year in Leviticus 25:4?

The Sabbath year in Leviticus 25:4 emphasizes the importance of rest for the land, reflecting a respect for God's creation. It teaches the Israelites to trust in God for provision, even when they are not actively farming.

What does 'Sabbath of complete rest for the land' mean in Leviticus 25:4?

The phrase 'Sabbath of complete rest for the land' in Leviticus 25:4 means that the land should not be cultivated or worked during the seventh year. This practice allows the soil to recover and maintain its fertility.

How does Leviticus 25:4 relate to sustainability?

Leviticus 25:4 promotes sustainability by encouraging a cycle of rest for the land, which helps preserve its health and fertility for future generations. This principle highlights the need for responsible stewardship of natural resources.

The Book of Leviticus
Book Summary

The Book of Leviticus

Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering

The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.

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