An important distinctive of the Jubilee is that it began with the sound of the trumpet on the seventh month of the 49th year. (Lev. 25:8-10) All other years began on the 1st of Abib. (Exodus 12:2) In other words, the 50th year was superimposed over the last half of the 49th year and the first half-year of the next jubilee cycle.
Diagram of Jubilee Cycle
Are there any examples of such an occasion in the history of the Judges? Yes! When the rule of judges, the times of oppression, and the continuous count of seven is laid down together, a Jubilee year is produced in 1298 BC in the year that Israel was set free from the Moabite oppression.
Please have another look at post #3 showing how to spot a Sabbath and notice these things:
- Ehud's daring act happened late summer, because Israel's 'tribute' would have come from the harvest. (Jdg. 3:15-20)
- Ehud blew the shofar - the Jubilee trumpet - at which the Israelites rallied and defeated their foes.
- The trumpet was blown from “the hill country of Ephraim” to where the people gathered. This location is Mts Gerizim and Ebal.
- The eastern tribes enjoyed a long peace of 80 years indicating repentance and the Lord's favour.
Together with the sabbatical count, these factors confirm a 49/50 year and enable us to reliably date events that happened during the book of Judges. I.O.W. Ehud's rule began in September 1298 BC.
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