Exodus 23:10 - Printer Friendly

ESV: "For six years you shall sow your land and gather in its yield,

NIV: "For six years you are to sow your fields and harvest the crops,

NASB: Now you shall sow your land for six years and gather in its yield,

CSB: "Sow your land for six years and gather its produce.

NLT: Plant and harvest your crops for six years,

KJV: And six years thou shalt sow thy land, and shalt gather in the fruits thereof:

NKJV: “Six years you shall sow your land and gather in its produce,

Exodus 23:10–11 commands Israel to allow fields a "rest" every seven years. The ground must grow wild, so the poor and wild animals can benefit from it. This applies to regular crops as well as vineyards and orchards. The passage also reiterates the weekly Sabbath (Exodus 23:12). This seventh-day rest is to be enforced for all men and animals within Israel.

These laws mandate fair judgment, with no bias given for or against the rich, the poor, or foreign travelers. God commands Israel not to follow popular sentiment when it is unjust. Other rules require letting fields grow wild every seven years for the benefit of the land, the poor, and wild animals. The Lord then warns Israel about obedience. If they follow His will, an angel will guide them as they conquer the entire Promised Land (Genesis 15:18–21; Deuteronomy 11:24).

After receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3–17), Israel learns other laws from the Lord. Chapters 21 and 22 covered topics such as servants' rights, homicide, negligence, theft, and social justice. This chapter mandates certain yearly festivals and forbids bias in judgments. It also instructs Israel regarding their upcoming conquest of the Promised Land. Chapter 24 describes a ritual confirmation of the Mosaic covenant. Most chapters after that involve details of the tabernacle.

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 6/15/2025 9:48:16 AM