The Feast of Firstfruits

The Day of Firstfruits—Yom HaBikkurim (יום הביכורים)—is more than the beginning of a harvest…

In the days of ancient Israel, during the week of Unleavened Bread, the first sheaf of the barley harvest—the omer—was brought before יהוה and waved as an offering (Leviticus 23:9–14). It was not the full harvest… just the first.

After Messiah’s resurrection, something profound happened. When Miriam (Mary) saw Him at the tomb, she reached for Him—but He said: “Do not touch Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father…” (John 20:17) Why? Because the First Fruits offering had not yet been presented at the temple.

Messiah, risen from the dead, was not only alive—He was fulfilling something ancient. On the very day the priest would wave the first sheaf before יהוה…He ascended.

He became the Firstfruits of the resurrection the first sheaf of a greater harvest the perfect offering presented to the Father as it is written: “But in fact Messiah has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20)

Firstfruits begins the counting of the Omer—(This year, the date of Firtsfruits is April 5, 2026) This is a time to continue reflecting on our blessings from above…and to examine our shortcomings…a time to grow.

It is the time between Firsfruits and Shavuot/Pentecost – the giving of the Ten Commandments and the giving of the Ruach haKodesh (the Holy Spirit) .

Rejoice… He is risen…and because He lives, the harvest is certain.

Happy Feast of Firstfruits beloved.