Purpose of Shemittah/2

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Purpose of Shemittah

Exegetical Approaches

This topic is currently in progress

Recognition of God

The Shemittah year reminds the nation of God's sovereignty and providence, and makes them aware of their dependence upon Him.

"שַׁבָּת לַי"י"
Comparison to Shabbat
Break from work
Forsaking of produce
Context
Punishment of exile
Parallel Commandments

Social Justice

The commandment comes to teach people to have mercy on those less fortunate than themselves and to emphasize the equality of all mankind.

For the Land

Shemittah focuses on man's relationship to the land, rather than to God or the others around him.  It either serves a practical function in keeping the land healthy and able to bear fruit or highhlights the holiness of the land.