Leviticus 25:4

Authorized King 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.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּבַשָּׁנָ֣ה
year
a year (as a revolution of time)
#2
הַשְּׁבִיעִ֗ת
But in the seventh
seventh
#3
שַׁבָּ֖ת
a sabbath
intermission, i.e (specifically) the sabbath
#4
שַׁבָּתוֹן֙
of rest
a sabbatism or special holiday
#5
יִֽהְיֶ֣ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#6
לָאָ֔רֶץ
unto the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#7
שַׁבָּ֖ת
a sabbath
intermission, i.e (specifically) the sabbath
#8
לַֽיהוָ֑ה
for the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#9
שָֽׂדְךָ֙
thy field
a field (as flat)
#10
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#11
תִזְרָ֔ע
thou shalt neither sow
to sow; figuratively, to disseminate, plant, fructify
#12
וְכַרְמְךָ֖
thy vineyard
a garden or vineyard
#13
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#14
תִזְמֹֽר׃
nor prune
to trim (a vine)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Leviticus.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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