“Beside the sabbaths of the LORD, and beside your gifts, and beside all your vows, and beside all your freewill offerings, which ye give unto the LORD.”
Leviticus 23 contains instructions for the appointed feasts or holy convocations that the Israelites were to observe. These feasts were significant times of worship and celebration, serving as a means of commemorating and honoring the relationship between God and His people.
Verse 38 appears at the end of this chapter and provides a summary statement. It reminds the Israelites that the instructions regarding the appointed feasts were in addition to their regular observance of the weekly Sabbaths. The verse mentions various aspects related to their offerings and vows made to the Lord.
Sabbaths of the Lord: The Israelites were commanded to observe a day of rest every week, known as the Sabbath, as a memorial of God’s rest after the creation of the world (Exodus 20:8-11). This verse acknowledges that the instructions in Leviticus 23 concerning the appointed feasts did not replace or nullify the importance of the weekly Sabbath.
Gifts: The Israelites were expected to present various offerings and sacrifices to the Lord as expressions of worship, thanksgiving, and atonement for sin. Leviticus outlines different types of offerings, such as burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and trespass offerings. These offerings were part of the ceremonial and sacrificial system established by God to address sin and maintain their relationship with Him.
Vows: Israelites would make voluntary vows to consecrate themselves or offer specific gifts to the Lord. These vows were a personal commitment to dedicate something to God or to engage in a particular act of worship or service.
Freewill Offerings: In addition to the prescribed offerings, the Israelites were encouraged to present freewill offerings. These offerings were given willingly and were not obligatory. They demonstrated a heart of generosity and gratitude towards God.
Overall, Leviticus 23:38 serves as a reminder that the appointed feasts and offerings described in the preceding verses were to be observed alongside the regular Sabbath, gifts, vows, and freewill offerings. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent practice of worship, obedience, and devotion to God in all aspects of life, both in the prescribed rituals and in personal acts of devotion.
