The Feast of Tabernacles, is one of the most significant and joyous festivals in the Biblical calendar. This week-long celebration, holds prophetic and historical significance for Israel and, as we will explore, profound relevance for all who seek to understand the roots of this sacred observance.
Rejoicing and Redemption
The observance of the Feast of Tabernacles is rooted in the commandments found in the Torah. Leviticus 23:39 states, "Also on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the fruit of the land, you shall keep a feast to the LORD seven days; on the first day shall be a sabbath, and on the eighth day shall be a sabbath." This festival, marked by living in temporary booths or sukkahs, is a time of great rejoicing.
Deuteronomy 16:13 emphasizes the importance of rejoicing during this feast: "You shall observe the Feast of Tabernacles seven days when you have gathered in your produce. And you shall rejoice in your feast, you and your son and your daughter, your male servant and your female servant, and the Levite, the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your gates." Rejoicing during this time carries profound prophetic meaning, signifying increase and blessings that are yet to come.
A Timeless Reminder of Redemption
Beyond the jubilation, the Feast of Tabernacles serves as a powerful memorial of God's redemption of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. In Genesis 47, we learn of Joseph's wisdom in storing grain during the years of plenty to prepare for the famine that would afflict Egypt and the surrounding nations. As the famine worsened, the Egyptians came to Joseph, exchanging their money, livestock, and eventually their land for sustenance. This series of events marked the beginning of Israel's bondage in Egypt.
But during the Exodus, God redeemed His people with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. He led them out of slavery, through the parted waters of the Red Sea, and into the wilderness, providing for them along the way. The Feast of Tabernacles is a reminder of this profound redemption—when God took a people in bondage and set them free, promising to lead them to a land flowing with milk and honey.
Prophetic Significance
The prophetic significance of the Feast of Tabernacles becomes even more apparent in Zechariah 14. This chapter speaks of a day when the LORD Himself will come to Jerusalem and stand upon the Mount of Olives. It describes dramatic events that will unfold, with God's victory over the nations and the establishment of His kingship over all the earth.
During this time, Zechariah 14:16 tells us, "And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles." This passage suggests that the Feast of Tabernacles will be celebrated by all nations, emphasizing its universal significance in the future redemption and worship of God.
The Tithe and Firstfruits
Connected to the Feast of Tabernacles are the concepts of tithes and firstfruits. Leviticus 27:30 underscores the sacredness of the tithe: "And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD's; it is holy to the LORD." Tithing involves giving back to the LORD a portion of what He has blessed us with, acknowledging His ownership of all we possess.
Deuteronomy 26 provides a beautiful illustration of bringing the firstfruits to the LORD as an act of worship and gratitude for His deliverance. This act not only serves as an offering but also as a declaration of God's faithfulness throughout history.
A Time to Rejoice and Look Ahead
In essence, the Feast of Tabernacles is a time to rejoice in what the YeHoVaH has done, is doing, and will do. Just as the Israelites rejoiced in booths during their wilderness journey, we can find joy in the temporary nature of our earthly lives, knowing that our ultimate redemption and dwelling place are secure in God's hands.
Yeshua's disciples, having experienced the redemption offered through Him, understand that all they have belongs to the LORD. Their offerings of firstfruits and tithes become opportunities for rejoicing in God's provision and looking ahead to the blessings He has promised.
In conclusion, the Feast of Tabernacles is not merely a historical or cultural observance; it is a prophetic celebration of God's redemption, provision, and future promises.
May we, like those who have gone before us, find joy in rejoicing, tithing, and offering firstfruits as acts of worship, trusting in the Lord's redemptive power and eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of His promises. In doing so, we participate in the prophetic journey of the Feast of Tabernacles, celebrating God's past, present, and future work in our lives.
If you are yet to tithe and give offerings you can do so below.
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