Exodus 23:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Keep the Feast of Harvest (firstfruits) and the Feast of Ingathering (end-of-year harvest).
The Context of Exodus 23:16
Laws establishing the Feast of Harvest and Feast of Ingathering as pilgrimage festivals.
What Does Exodus 23:16 Mean?
Two harvest-related feasts structure the farmer's year: one at the beginning of harvest to offer firstfruits in thanksgiving, and one at the end when all gathering is complete. Both feasts acknowledge that the land's productivity comes from God and express gratitude through worship.
Agricultural abundance is a visible sign of blessing. By marking the harvest with feasts, Israel connects human labor and divine provision in their corporate memory.
Exodus 23:16 in the Original Language
bikkurim (בִּכּוּרִים), 'firstfruits'—the first and best produce of the harvest, offered to God as a sign of devotion and dependence on His provision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 23:16
What does Exodus 23:16 mean?
Keep the Feast of Harvest (firstfruits) and the Feast of Ingathering (end-of-year harvest).
What is the context of Exodus 23:16?
Laws establishing the Feast of Harvest and Feast of Ingathering as pilgrimage festivals.