Leviticus 25:7 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 25:7 mean?

Leviticus 25:7 says that during the special year described in this chapter, not only people but also livestock and wild animals in the land can eat whatever the land produces naturally. The verse makes clear that the increase of the land—what grows on its own—serves as food for both domestic animals and wild creatures.

In this part of Leviticus, God is speaking to the Israelites through Moses about the Sabbath year, a time when they are to let their fields rest and not farm them as usual. The instruction here extends the benefit of this rest year beyond humans, showing that God’s provision during this time includes cattle, wild animals, and all living things in the land. This reflects a concern for the whole ecosystem, not just human needs.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 25:7

• The word for "cattle" is בְּהֵמָה (behemah), which often refers to domesticated animals like cows, sheep, and goats. This shows that the Sabbath year’s produce is meant for the animals people depend on for daily life.
• The word for "beast" is חַיָּה (chayyah), usually meaning wild animals. Including this word highlights that even creatures not owned by anyone are provided for in this law.
• The word for "land" is אֶרֶץ (erets), which means the whole territory or country. This suggests that the instruction applies broadly, not just to a single farm or field.
• The word for "increase" is תְּבוּאָה (tevu’ah), meaning what the land produces or yields. This makes clear that whatever grows by itself during the Sabbath year is available as food.
• The word for "meat" is אָכַל (akal), which simply means "to eat" or "food." It does not specifically mean animal flesh here, but rather anything edible that the land provides.

Why Leviticus 25:7 matters

• Leviticus 25:7 clarifies that the Sabbath year’s rest is not just about stopping work but also about sharing God’s provision with animals, both tame and wild.
• The verse emphasizes that the land’s natural produce is not to be hoarded or restricted, but is open for all living creatures, underlining a theme of generosity and trust in God’s care.
• This instruction connects to the wider passage by showing that the Sabbath year is about the health and balance of the whole community and environment, not just human prosperity.