Exodus 31:15 (KJV)

What does Exodus 31:15 mean?

Exodus 31:15 says that work is allowed for six days, but the seventh day is a special day of rest called the Sabbath, set apart as holy for the LORD. Anyone who does work on the Sabbath is to be put to death, showing how seriously this command was taken for Israel.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, giving instructions for the people of Israel about how to keep the Sabbath. The command highlights the Sabbath as a day completely dedicated to God (the LORD), different from the other six days. The warning of death for working on the Sabbath shows the importance of obedience and the seriousness of keeping this covenant sign.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 31:15

• "Sabbath" (שַׁבָּת, shabbat) means "rest" or "ceasing." Here, it is not just a day off but a day set apart for God, emphasizing stopping regular work to honor Him.
• "Holy" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) means "set apart" or "sacred." The Sabbath is not just a rest day but is specially dedicated to the LORD, making it different from ordinary days.
• "Work" (מְלָאכָה, melakhah) refers to regular labor or occupational tasks. The word points to the kind of work people did for a living, not just any activity.
• "Surely...death" (מוֹת יוּמָת, mot yumat) is a strong phrase meaning "must certainly be put to death," showing the seriousness of breaking this command in Israel's law.

Why Exodus 31:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that the Sabbath was not just a suggestion but a central part of Israel's relationship with God, marked by a very serious penalty for breaking it.
• The language shows that the Sabbath was meant to be a complete stop from ordinary work, not just a lighter workload or a partial rest.
• In the wider context, this command comes as part of the instructions for building the tabernacle, reminding Israel that even important religious work did not override the Sabbath rest.