Bible Feasts & Holidays - Pentecost or Feast of Weeks

Tomorrow at sundown, Jews will begin to commemorate Shavuot, or Pentecost (Feast of Weeks). Celebrated on the fiftieth day after Passover, Shavuot is traditionally a joyous time of giving thanks for the new grain of the summer wheat harvest in Israel. The name "Feast of Weeks" was given because God commanded the Jews in Leviticus 23:15-16, to count seven full weeks (or 49 days) beginning on the second day of Passover, and then present offerings of new grain to the Lord as a lasting ordinance.

Shavuot was originally a festival for expressing joy and thankfulness to the Lord for the blessing of the harvest. And because it occurred at the conclusion of the Passover, it also acquired the name "Latter Firstfruits." The celebration is also tied to the giving of the Ten Commandments and thus bears the name Matin Torah or "giving of the Law." Jews believe that it was at this time that God gave the Torah to the people through Moses on Mount Sinai.

We will take a look at Pentecost from a Christian perspective, explaining the biblical basis, traditional observances, seasons, facts, and an interesting section revealing the fulfillment of the Messiah, Jesus Christ through the feast.

• Learn about Pentecost

Also:

• Bible Feasts Calendar
• Seasons of Faith - Christian Holiday Calendar