Holy Convocations

This chapter provides the first full listing in Scripture of the feasts of God, which lay out His incredible plan of salvation for mankind. Stressed here is the fact that these are not just the Israelites' feasts but God's feasts, including the weekly Sabbath, as well as the fact that the Holy Days within them are "holy convocations"—commanded assemblies. We must always obey God in observing these feasts—to be in His presence and receive instruction from Him. They are His appointed times to show Him proper appreciation, respect and honor.

The general instructions apply fully to mankind today. The instructions about what offerings to make are included here because the book of Leviticus focuses on the responsibilities of the priests and Levites. Some instructions given here are especially valuable because they are more complete than elsewhere in the Bible, including those about the wave-sheaf, the counting for determining the timing of Pentecost, and staying in booths (tabernacles or tents)—emphasizing temporarily staying in dwellings other than one's home—during the Feast of Tabernacles.

To learn more about God's feasts, request or download our free booklet, God's Holy Day Plan: The Promise of Hope for All Mankind. The supplementary readings are found in this publication.

Supplementary Reading: “Introduction” and “Are God’s Holy Days Relevant Today,” God’s Holy Day Plan: The Promise of Hope for All Mankind, pp. 2-8; “How Should We Observe God’s Festivals,” pp. 59-62.