Besides enjoying one Sabbath day of rest each week, the Israelites also enjoyed 19 days when national holidays were celebrated.
One day (Leviticus 23:5)
What It Celebrated: When God spared the lives of Israel’s firstborn children in Egypt and freed the Hebrews from slavery
Its Importance: Reminded the people of God’s deliverance
Seven days (Leviticus 23:6-8)
What It Celebrated: The exodus from Egypt
Its Importance: Reminded the people they were leaving the old life behind and entering a new way of living
One day (Leviticus 23:9-14)
What It Celebrated: The first crops of the barley harvest
Its Importance: Reminded the people how God provided for them
One day (Leviticus 23:15-22)
What It Celebrated: The end of the barley harvest and beginning of the wheat harvest
Its Importance: Showed joy and thanksgiving over the bountiful harvest
One day (Leviticus 23:23-25)
What It Celebrated: The beginning of the seventh month (civil new year)
Its Importance: Expressed joy and thanksgiving to God
One day (Leviticus 23:26-32)
What It Celebrated: The removal of sin from the people and the nation
Its Importance: Restored fellowship with God
Seven days (Leviticus 23:33-43)
What It Celebrated: God’s protection and guidance in the wilderness
Its Importance: Renewed Israel’s commitment to God and trust in his guidance and protection