Moses commanded them, saying, “At the end of every seven years, in the set time of the year of release, in the feast of booths,
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 10. Years commenced. Hebrew “at the extremity of seven years.” The sabbatic years began at the expiration of every six years, ( Bible.) after the land of Chanaan was conquered, ( Calmet.) or perhaps after the passage of the Jordan, which took place soon after this discourse was made. Josue spent above six years in the conquest of the country, and then divided it among the tribes. The seventh year was the first year of remission; as the Israelites, particularly on the east side of the Jordan, had already enjoyed the benefits of the country for a considerable time. If they had been required to wait till the whole had been conquered, no sabbatical year would have been of obligation before the reign of Solomon, as he had still some of the devoted nations to subdue. See Exodus 23. Leviticus 25. Salien. A.Calmet. 1463. At this time, the ark was removed from Galgala to Silo, where it remained about 350 years. Joshua 18. Bible.