Exodus 12:16

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

ويَكونُ لَكم في اليَومِ الأَوَّلِ مَحفِلٌ مُقَدَّس، وفي اليَومِ السَّابِعِ مَحفِلٌ مُقدَّس، لا يُعمَلُ فيهِما عَمَل، بل ما تأكُلُه كُلُّ نَفْسٍ هو وَحدَه يُصنَعُ لَكم.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Exodus says that during a special week-long celebration, the first and seventh days are holy days when no work should be done, except for preparing food. This instruction is part of God's command to the Israelites regarding the Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread.

Explained for Children

Imagine it's like having a week-long party where you can play and celebrate. But on the first and last days of the party, you're supposed to be extra special and not do any work, except maybe make some yummy snacks! That's what God told the Israelites to do during their big celebration.

Historical Background

Moses wrote this part of Exodus around 1446 BC, detailing God's instructions to the Israelites about the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This was during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, under the cultural setting where feasts and holy days were significant religious observances.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us of the importance of setting aside special times for rest and reflection, such as taking time off work to enjoy a family vacation or a spiritual retreat, focusing on what truly matters rather than daily chores.

Topics

• celebration
• holiness
• rest
• feast
• commandments
• traditions

Related Verses

• Leviticus 23:7
• Numbers 28:18
• Deuteronomy 16:8
• Luke 23:56
• John 19:31

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the first and seventh days?

These days are considered sacred and a time for rest and reflection, marking the beginning and the end of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a significant event for the Israelites.

Can we do any work on these holy days?

No work should be done except for preparing food. This rule emphasizes the importance of these days as times of rest and holiness.

How can we relate this to modern times?

We can set aside special times for rest and spiritual reflection, similar to setting aside weekends or holidays for family and rest from work.

What other verses talk about similar holy days?

Verses like Leviticus 23:7 and Deuteronomy 16:8 provide similar instructions about observing holy days with rest and special observances.