Leviticus 23:21 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 23:21 mean?

Leviticus 23:21 commands the Israelites to announce a special day as a “holy convocation,” meaning a sacred gathering, on which they must not do any regular work. This instruction is to be followed as a lasting rule for all their generations, wherever they live.

In this verse, God is speaking to the people of Israel through Moses, giving them directions about how to observe the Feast of Weeks (also called Pentecost). The verse emphasizes that this day is set apart from ordinary days, requiring rest from usual labor and a communal focus on worship. The instruction is meant to be permanent, applying to every generation and in every place the Israelites live.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 23:21

• “Proclaim” (קָרָא, qara): This word means to call out or announce publicly. Here, it stresses that the day is not just observed quietly but is to be declared openly as a special occasion.
• “Holy” (קָדוֹשׁ, qadosh): This word means set apart or sacred. The day is not just a day off but is dedicated to God, different from other days.
• “Convocation” (מִקְרָא, miqra): This means an assembly or gathering. The idea is that the people come together for a specific, sacred purpose, not just individually resting.
• “Servile” (עֲבֹדָה, avodah): This word refers to labor or work done as a servant. The restriction is not against all activity, but specifically against ordinary, work-related tasks.

Why Leviticus 23:21 matters

• Leviticus 23:21 clarifies that the day is not just a holiday but a sacred assembly, highlighting the communal and spiritual nature of the observance.
• The emphasis on “no servile work” shows that the focus is on rest from regular employment, not necessarily all forms of activity, which helps avoid confusion about what is and isn’t allowed.
• By stating this is a “statute forever,” the verse connects this command to the ongoing identity and rhythm of life for the Israelite community, showing its importance across generations and locations.