King James Version

What Does Leviticus 23:35 Mean?

Leviticus 23:35 in the King James Version says “On the first day shall be an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“On the first day shall be an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein.”

Leviticus 23:35 · KJV

Context

33

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

34

Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of tabernacles for seven days unto the LORD.

35

On the first day shall be an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein.

36

Seven days ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: on the eighth day shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: it is a solemn assembly; and ye shall do no servile work therein. solemn: Heb. day of restraint

37

These are the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, to offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD, a burnt offering, and a meat offering, a sacrifice, and drink offerings, every thing upon his day:

Read Leviticus 23 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
On the first day shall be an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein.

This verse falls within the section on Appointed Feasts. God's sacred calendar including Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles, marking redemption and agricultural blessings.

The central theme of Leviticus is God's holiness and the call for His people to be holy. The Hebrew word qadosh (קָדוֹשׁ) means 'set apart' or 'sacred,' emphasizing both separation from sin and consecration to God's purposes.
The holiness demanded in Leviticus becomes possible through Christ, who both satisfies God's righteous requirements and transforms believers by His Spirit.

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Historical & Cultural Context

God's sacred calendar including Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles, marking redemption and agricultural blessings. Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. The tabernacle's design parallels ancient Near Eastern temple architecture, yet its portable nature and absence of divine images distinguished it from pagan temples.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's holiness, as revealed in this verse, shape your understanding of worship, obedience, and daily living?
  2. What does this verse teach about the seriousness of sin, the cost of redemption, or the beauty of holiness?
  3. In what practical ways should this verse influence your church life, family relationships, or personal integrity?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 9 words
בַּיּ֥וֹם1 of 9

“day”

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

הָֽרִאשׁ֖וֹן2 of 9

“On the first”

H7223

first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun)

מִקְרָא3 of 9

“convocation”

H4744

something called out, i.e., a public meeting (the act, the persons, or the place); also a rehearsal

קֹ֑דֶשׁ4 of 9

“shall be an holy”

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

כָּל5 of 9
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

מְלֶ֥אכֶת6 of 9

“work”

H4399

properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

עֲבֹדָ֖ה7 of 9

“no servile”

H5656

work of any kind

לֹ֥א8 of 9
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תַֽעֲשֽׂוּ׃9 of 9

“ye shall do”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

Study Guide

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 23:35 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Leviticus 23:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 23:24-25Leviticus 23:7-8

Test Your Knowledge

Leviticus 23 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterLeviticus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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