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Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 16 - Verse 13

16:13
Thou shalt observe the feast of tabernacles seven days, after that thou hast gathered in thy corn and thy wine:

Meaning

In the Bible, the Feast of Tabernacles is a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites' time in the wilderness during the Exodus from Egypt. It is also known as Sukkot and is celebrated for seven days, following the gathering of the harvest, including corn and wine. The feast is a time of rejoicing, thanksgiving, and commemorating God's provision for His people during their time in the wilderness. During this festival, Jewish families build temporary structures called sukkahs, or booths, to remind them of the Israelites' humble dwellings in the wilderness. They also wave branches from palm, myrtle, and willow trees, known as the Four Species, as a symbol of unity. The Feast of Tabernacles is a time of reflection on God's faithfulness and provision, as well as a time of looking forward to the future redemption promised by God.

Theological Overview

The feast of tabernacles, also known as Sukkot, is a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates the forty years the Israelites spent wandering in the desert after leaving Egypt. This verse instructs the Israelites to celebrate this feast for seven days after they have gathered in their crop and wine. The theological interpretation of this commandment highlights the importance of gratitude and thanksgiving to God for providing for His people. The act of gathering in the harvest and then celebrating the feast serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision. Additionally, the word "tabernacles" itself carries symbolic meaning, representing the temporary dwellings the Israelites lived in during their time in the wilderness, reminding them of their reliance on God for sustenance and protection. This verse illustrates the deep connection between the physical act of harvesting and the spiritual act of worship, emphasizing the intertwining of God's provision with His people's faithfulness.

American Standard Version

Thou shalt keep the feast of tabernacles seven days, after that thou hast gathered in from thy threshing-floor and from thy winepress:
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