Old Testament

Numbers 29:12

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

On the 15th day of the 7th month, hold a holy assembly. Don't do any regular work. Celebrate a feast to the LORD for 7 days.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And on the fifteenth day of the seventh month ye shall have an holy convocation; ye shall do no servile work, and ye shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days:

What Numbers 29:12 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Numbers 29:12, God instructs the Israelites to observe a special festival known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot, which begins on the 15th day of the seventh month in the Hebrew calendar. This festival is a time for gathering and celebration, marked by a holy assembly where no regular work is to be done. The Israelites are called to dedicate seven days to honor the Lord, reflecting on His provision and faithfulness during their journey in the wilderness. This period is significant as it commemorates the harvest and the time when the Israelites lived in temporary shelters after their exodus from Egypt. The emphasis on rest and worship highlights the importance of setting aside time for spiritual reflection and community gathering, reinforcing the relationship between God and His people. Overall, this verse encapsulates the essence of gratitude, remembrance, and communal worship in the life of the Israelite community.

How to apply Numbers 29:12 to your life

This verse encourages us to set aside time for rest and worship in our busy lives. Just as the Israelites celebrated their harvest and God's provision, we can take moments to reflect on our blessings and gather with others in faith, fostering community and gratitude.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers 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.

A painting of the king setting the royal crown on the head of Esther as she kneels before his throne, while the court looks on

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Esther

Rows of uncovered stone walls on the mound at Tel Shiloh, with no modern buildings in view.

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.

Shiloh

Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Numbers 29:12

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 Numbers 29:12

At a Glance — the Book of Numbers

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 Numbers 29:12 mean?

Numbers 29:12 instructs the Israelites to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles, a seven-day festival starting on the 15th day of the seventh month. It emphasizes gathering for worship and rest, commemorating God's provision during their wilderness journey.

What is the significance of the Feast of Tabernacles in Numbers 29:12?

The Feast of Tabernacles, mentioned in Numbers 29:12, is significant as it celebrates the harvest and God's faithfulness. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' time in temporary shelters after leaving Egypt, fostering gratitude and community.

What is a holy assembly according to Numbers 29:12?

A holy assembly in Numbers 29:12 refers to a gathering set apart for worship and celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles. During this time, no regular work is to be done, allowing the community to focus on honoring the Lord.

How long does the celebration last in Numbers 29:12?

The celebration mentioned in Numbers 29:12 lasts for seven days, during which the Israelites are called to gather, worship, and reflect on God's blessings.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.