There is something about the number seven. Throughout myths and folklore this number has been given precedent, considered lucky, or presented as possessing innate magical qualities. A quick scan of cultures and generations will confirm that phenomena surrounding this number are present in some way, shape, or form. It is unsurprising that this number is popular among athletes, whether amateur or professional, and is one of the first to be scooped up by members of a team.
Some mathematicians will make the case that this is due to the innate mathematical properties the number possesses, and perhaps there are innate qualities of the number that make it so appealing to the masses. But could it be that these properties were put there because it is meant to direct us to the One Who is Most Appealing?
Seven in Scripture
It is common knowledge that the first creation story in Genesis spans the length of seven days. The Creator begins with the habitats (light and darkness, sky and sea, land and plants); then He fills each one (sun and moon, birds and fish, animals and mankind). All this takes place in six days. On the seventh day, God rests and invites His creation to partake of this rest.
This occurrence makes it very clear what the purpose of creation is. Much like we know the purpose of muffins is to be eaten, as that is what occurs once their time in the oven is finished, the intent of God’s creation is to be in relationship with Him, as that is the first thing that happens once His project is complete. On this seventh day, we see what we are created for: union with God.
In Hebrew, the word seven is שבע, or “shba.” It is easy to see the connection between the words “seven” and “sabbath,” the day of the week which is set aside specifically for relationship with God and one another. What is harder to see is the connection between this word and the covenant. I remember being awestruck upon learning from my favorite professor that when entering into a covenant, the wording used in Hebrew is the same. Thus when swearing, or vowing, to belong to one another, the wording could also be translated as, “I seven myself to thee.” All of this stems back to the beginning, mankind's purpose: to be one with God.
So when it comes down to it, there’s nothing lucky about the number seven. The world finds it so satisfying because it points to Who and why we are here!
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Seven and Sabbatical
Upon learning a bit of linguistics, the connection between the number seven and a sabbatical rest becomes obvious. We can also then connect it relatively easily to the reason for which we were made.
Our incredible Blessed is She team has spent seven years creating a beautiful ministry and community for Christian women to come together in fellowship and follow Christ. For them, we are incredibly grateful, as this ministry has been so impactful for so many hearts. As they prepare to take their sabbatical and rest during the season of Lent, we lift up their lives in gratitude, and ask that this time of rest would be Edenic for them. May we all be more fully united with the heart of our Creator!
Next time you see the number seven, say a little prayer for greater union with God.
Grace is a regular contributor to the BIS Blog. She had planned to be a nurse until an encounter with Christ in Confession ignited a spark that resulted in an ongoing career as a high school Theology teacher. Though a cradle Catholic, she continues to be amazed at the depth of peace and joy that can be found within the Faith and can’t help but share that passion with others as a teacher, writer, and speaker. Outside of ministry, she dabbles in a bit of everything, excels in almost nothing, and like most moms, cannot survive without at least one cup of coffee a day. Grace resides in Charleston, SC with her hunky husband and their daughter who looks just like him. You can find out more about her here. Read all of Grace's posts here.
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