Exodus 31:15 Meaning and Explanation
“Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the LORD: whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Work is permitted six days; the seventh day is God's Sabbath rest, and breaking it by working brings death.
The Context of Exodus 31:15
God reinforces the Sabbath as the Lord's day and the consequence of desecration.
What Does Exodus 31:15 Mean?
The rhythm of six-and-one reflects creation's pattern and grants all Israelites (free and enslaved, rich and poor) the dignity of rest. This weekly pause acknowledges that human productivity is not the measure of worth or security.
The Sabbath is specifically holy to the LORD—a day consecrated to God, not human purposes. Its violation removes the person from the covenant community, the realm of blessing where God's presence dwells.
Exodus 31:15 in the Original Language
sabbath of rest (שַׁבַּת שַׁבָּתוֹן, Shabbat Shabbaton) — literally Sabbath of complete rest; an emphatic form stressing absolute cessation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 31:15
What does Exodus 31:15 mean?
Work is permitted six days; the seventh day is God's Sabbath rest, and breaking it by working brings death.
What is the context of Exodus 31:15?
God reinforces the Sabbath as the Lord's day and the consequence of desecration.