Leviticus 23:31 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 23:31 mean?

Leviticus 23:31 commands the Israelites not to do any kind of work on a specific holy day, establishing this as a permanent rule for all their generations, wherever they live. The verse emphasizes that this day is to be strictly set apart from ordinary activities.

Moses is relaying God’s instructions to the Israelites about how to observe certain sacred days, specifically the Day of Atonement in this context. The verse stresses that this command is not just for one time or one place, but is meant to be followed by every generation of Israelites, no matter where they settle.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 23:31

• "do" (עָשָׂה, ʿasah): This word means to make or do, and here it covers all kinds of actions, not just formal employment. The command is broad, leaving little room for exceptions.
• "work" (מְלָאכָה, melakhah): This term refers to labor or occupational tasks, not just casual activity. It highlights that the prohibition is about ceasing all productive or creative work.
• "statute" (חֻקָּה, chuqqah): This word means an established ordinance or rule. Calling it a "statute" shows this is not just a suggestion, but a binding, formal requirement.
• "ever" (עוֹלָם, olam): This word is often understood as "forever" or "for all time." It shows the lasting nature of the command.
• "generations" (דּוֹר, dor): This word means a group of people living at the same time, so the rule is for every future group of Israelites.
• "dwellings" (מוֹשָׁב, moshav): This word means places where people live. The command applies wherever Israelites make their homes, not just in the land of Israel.

Why Leviticus 23:31 matters

• The verse clarifies that the command to rest from work on this holy day is not limited by location or time; it is for all Israelites, everywhere, and for all future generations.
• By using strong words like "statute" and "forever," the verse shows the seriousness and permanence of this command, setting it apart from temporary or situational rules.
• This verse helps explain the strictness of Sabbath and festival observance in later Jewish tradition, showing its roots in the Torah’s instructions.