Chapter 52
As we stand on the brink of the year’s conclusion, the imminent arrival of the 52nd Sabbath beckons us with a call to reflect and anticipate. This approaching Friday, the 29th of December, 2023, serves as a reminder of our journey through 52 intervals this year. This symbolic convergence encourages us to pause, carefully survey our experiences, and brace ourselves to step into the 52nd Sabbath—a threshold that not only concludes this year but also marks the transition to a new year, with countless new Sabbaths awaiting us in the new year ahead – 2024.
The significance of the number 52 reverberates across our world, weaving a narrative of completeness and unity in diverse realms. From the 52 weeks that delineate our annual journey, guiding the ebb and flow of time, to the mosaic of 52 countries in Africa—a canvas painted with a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and beauty—the number encapsulates a profound sense of variety and totality. In the realm of music, the 52 white keys on a piano orchestrate melodies that span the spectrum of human emotion. Moving to the sacred pages of the Bible, we discover that Deuteronomy 32, 1 Samuel 14, and Psalm 89—each comprising 52 verses—contribute additional layers to this numerical tapestry, infusing deeper meaning into the spiritual narrative.
A man named Nebo was recorded as having fifty-two descendants during the period of Ezra and Nehemiah. Led by figures like Zerubbabel, this lineage returned to the land of Judah after enduring Babylonian captivity. Notably, upon their homecoming, seven individuals among these returnees were advised by the prophet Ezra to part ways with their foreign wives. This counsel aligned with the biblical directive to prevent God’s people from intermarrying with non-Israelites, a precaution intended to safeguard against the risk of straying from exclusive worship of God and succumbing to idolatry. The advice given by Ezra reflects the biblical directive to maintain separation and holiness. In a metaphorical context, the Sabbath is a designated time of holiness, set apart from the rest of the week. Just as Ezra advocated for the separation of the returnees from foreign influences, the Sabbath serves as a period of spiritual separation, emphasizing a distinct and sacred connection with God.
In the New Testament, I want to mention three chapters with verse 52.
Luke 2:52; “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”
This verse provides a glimpse into the early years of Jesus’ life.
Mark 10:52 “And Jesus said to him, ‘Go, for your faith has healed you.’ Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.” This verse is part of a narrative involving Jesus and a blind man named Bartimaeus.
Acts 13:52 “And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” This verse is part of the narrative describing Paul and Barnabas’ missionary journey in Pisidian Antioch.
These verses collectively emphasize growth, positive change, and the transformative power of faith and the Holy Spirit in different aspects of individuals’ lives—whether it’s the developmental stages of Jesus, the healing of Bartimaeus, or the spiritual joy of the disciples. Each verse contributes to the multifaceted richness of the Sabbath experience, highlighting its significance as a sacred and distinct period in the lives of believers.
In a traditional Jewish setting, the Sabbath, concludes with a ceremony called Havdalah, which means “separation” in Hebrew. Havdalah marks the end of the Sabbath and the beginning of the new week.
The Blessing over Havdalah “Baruch atah, Adonai, hamavdil bayn kodesh lechol.”
Blessed are You, God, our Lord, King of the universe, who separates between the holy and the profane; between the light and dark; between Israel and the other nations; between the seventh day and the six days of the week.
As in this week we’ll end the 52nd Sabbath of 2023 let us raise the cup of wine or grape juice high when the last sentence is recited and then proceed to the blessings, a collection of Biblical verses.
Behold, the God who gives me triumph! I am confident, unafraid; for Adonai is my strength and might, and has been my deliverance. Joyfully shall you draw water from the fountains of triumph, deliverance is Adonai’s; Your blessing be upon Your people! Selah.
Adonai Tz’vaot is with us; the God of Jacob is our haven. Selah.
Adonai Tz’vaot. happy is the one who trusts in You. O Adonai, grant victory!
May the Sovereign answer us when we call.
The Jews enjoyed light and gladness, happiness and honor. So may it be for us.I raise the cup of deliverance and invoke the name of Adonai.
Wishing you all a good week and great transition to 2024!
Philemon