Deuteronomy 5:14
But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou.
DEUTERONOMY 5:14
Deuteronomy 5:14 emphasizes the sanctity of the seventh day: “But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, ... nor any of thy cattle.” This verse broadens Sabbath regulation to include household and even animal labor, emphasizing communal rest and concern for the vulnerable—slaves or servants, foreigners, and animals alike. The rule about rest for workers and even animals reveals a justice-oriented ethic that limits the absolute exploitation of labor and invites care for the vulnerable within the community.
The Sabbath becomes a social and spiritual liturgy, expressing trust in God’s provision and governance. It is a declaration that life is not only about productivity but about relationship with God and neighbor. The command anticipates the New Testament ethics of mercy and justice (James 2:15-16) and the gospel’s emphasis on freedom from bondage, reminding believers that rest is a gift linked to God’s redemptive work.
In today’s world, Sabbath practice can include caring for workers and vulnerable neighbors—checking in on colleagues, giving time off, and structuring a pace that respects rest for everyone in a household. It also invites families to practice shared rest—unplugged meals, time in nature, or community service. The goal is not legalistic observance but a posture of trusting God, allowing rest to refresh relationships and fuel service.
Cross-References: Exodus 20:10; Isaiah 58:13-14; Mark 2:27; Luke 4:16; Hebrews 4:9-11