Exodus 13:10
Thou shalt therefore keep this ordinance in his season from year to year.
Original Language Analysis
וְשָֽׁמַרְתָּ֛
Thou shalt therefore keep
H8104
וְשָֽׁמַרְתָּ֛
Thou shalt therefore keep
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
לְמֽוֹעֲדָ֑הּ
in his season
H4150
לְמֽוֹעֲדָ֑הּ
in his season
Strong's:
H4150
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for
Historical Context
The annual Passover observance created a rhythm that structured Israel's religious life. Missing Passover was serious enough that provision was made for a second chance one month later (Numbers 9:9-13).
Questions for Reflection
- How does annual commemoration of redemption prevent spiritual amnesia and complacency?
- What regular spiritual rhythms structure your year around remembering God's saving work?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The requirement to keep this ordinance 'in his season from year to year' establishes annual rhythm. The Hebrew 'miyamim yamimah' (מִיָּמִים יָמִימָה) means 'from days to days'—the anniversary returns cyclically. Regular commemoration prevents forgetfulness. This principle underlies Christian liturgical calendar observances—regular remembrance maintains spiritual vitality and prevents drift.