King James Version

What Does Leviticus 23:2 Mean?

“Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, Concerning the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my feasts.”

Context

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, Concerning the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my feasts.

Six days shall work be done: but the seventh day is the sabbath of rest, an holy convocation; ye shall do no work therein: it is the sabbath of the LORD in all your dwellings.

These are the feasts of the LORD, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **Speak unto the children of Israel.**—As the festivals here discussed were to be solemnly kept by them, Moses is ordered to address these regulations to the people or their representatives. **Concerning the feasts of the Lord **. . . Better, *the festivals of the Lord which ye shall proclaim as holy convocations, these are my festivals. *That is, the following festivals God claims as His, on which solemn assemblies are to be held in the sanctuary.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Leviticus 23:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.