Overview

This verse introduces the context surrounding the Feast of Tabernacles, emphasizing its significance within the Jewish tradition. The Feast was one of the three major Jewish festivals, and it served as a time for thanksgiving for the harvest and remembrance of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings.

Biblical Context

The Feast of Tabernacles (also known as Sukkot) was celebrated five days after the Day of Atonement. This festival holds deep agricultural and historical meanings for the Jewish people. It involves dwelling in temporary shelters (sukkahs) to symbolize the Exodus experience.

Commentary Insights

Drawing from various public domain commentaries:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry notes that the timing of the festival underscores the importance of Jesus’ mission. He highlights the contrast between Jewish traditions and the new covenant that Jesus is introducing.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out the significance of the feast being 'at hand,' suggesting that it sets the stage for Jesus to publicly assert His identity, fulfill the law, and introduce the people to the concepts of spiritual provision and salvation.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke emphasizes the connection between the celebrations of provision and gratitude in the feast, paralleling it with Christ as the ultimate provider and sustainer, thereby connecting the festival with Christ’s teachings.

Connections Between Bible Verses

John 7:2 can be cross-referenced with several other verses, revealing deeper thematic connections:

• Leviticus 23:34 - "Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of tabernacles for seven days unto the LORD."
• John 1:14 - "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us..." (highlighting the concept of God’s presence among His people, akin to the tabernacles).
• Exodus 34:22 - "And thou shalt observe the feast of weeks, of the firstfruits of wheat harvest, and the feast of ingathering at the year's end."
• Matthew 5:17 - "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill."
• Hebrews 9:11 - "But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come..." (linking Jesus’ priestly role with the symbolism of the feast).
• Revelation 21:3 - "And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men..." (indicating the fulfillment of God's promise of dwelling with humanity).
• 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 - "Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened..." (suggesting the spiritual renewal connected with Christ and the feast).

Thematic Connections

This verse invites reflection on various thematic elements:

• Spiritual Provision: The Feast of Tabernacles characterizes God's provision in the wilderness, representing both physical and spiritual sustenance.
• Celebration and Thankfulness: This festival is a reminder of God's faithfulness, encouraging believers to celebrate and remain grateful for their own spiritual journeys.
• Anticipation of Christ: The timing of the feast leads to anticipation of Jesus' teachings and His offer of eternal life, making connections with His later declarations of being the Bread of Life.

Conclusion

John 7:2 sets a pivotal occasion in the narrative of the Gospels, focusing on the Jewish tradition while highlighting Jesus’ role in fulfilling these traditions with deeper spiritual meanings. Understanding this passage prepares believers for deeper engagement with the teachings and events that follow.