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Book of Leviticus - Chapter 26 - Verse 35

26:35
As long as it lieth desolate it shall rest; because it did not rest in your sabbaths, when ye dwelt upon it.

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Leviticus is a continuation of God's warning to the Israelites about the consequences of disobeying His commandments. Here, God is explaining that the land will have its rest, or sabbath, even if it is desolate because the people did not observe the sabbath when they dwelt on it. The sabbath was a day of rest and worship commanded by God, meant to be observed every seventh day as a sign of the covenant between God and His people. By neglecting to honor the sabbath and allowing the land to become desolate through their disobedience, the Israelites were not only breaking God's laws but also harming the very land He had given them. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obeying God's commandments and respecting the land He has provided for His people.

Theological Overview

In the theological interpretation of Ezekiel 36:34, the concept of rest is central to understanding the context of the verse. The passage speaks to the desolation of the land and its subsequent rest because the people did not honor the Sabbath. This reference to rest can be understood as a metaphor for the consequence of disobedience and lack of observance of God's commandments. The theological implication is that rest is a sign of God's favor and blessing, whereas unrest and desolation signify His disapproval. The word "sabbaths" in this verse carries a deep symbolic meaning, reflecting the importance of observing the Sabbath as a sign of reverence and obedience to God. Through a word study of "sabbaths" in the original Hebrew text, we can glean a richer understanding of the significance of rest in God's divine plan and the consequences of neglecting His commandments. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring God through obedience and finding rest in His presence.

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