I personally believe that the feast of first fruits is one of the most neglected of all the feasts. However, this feast represents the resurrection of our Messiah and promises our own resurrection! It only makes sense that our enemy would like to keep this feast hidden and has sought to replace it with Easter.

Many Torah-observant families are fearful of this feast because it takes place on a Sunday and because Christianity celebrates Easter on this day. However, this is the appointed time of YHWH! He wants to meet with you on this day, Sunday or not, and He has so much hope to give you through this feast. I urge all of us to claim it for our mighty King!

Start with Scripture

We recommend starting by studying each of the following Scripture passages:

• Leviticus 23:9-14 (and also continue by reading verses 15-16)
• Psalm 24:1, Exodus 23:14-19, Ezekiel 44:30
• Psalm 78:51, Psalm 105:36
• Matthew 27:50-53 (Who else was resurrected at Yeshua’s death?)
• Romans 8:23, Ephesians 1:14, 2 Corinthians 1:22
• Romans 11:13-16
• 1 Corinthians 15:12-28 (Note vs. 20, 23)
• James 1:18
• Revelation 14:4

Studies by Other Authors:

• From Anne Elliott:
  • Should We Celebrate Easter?
  • Thoughts on the Resurrection
  • New Birth
• The Significance of Understanding First Fruits (Schalk and Elsa Klee)
• From Christine Miller:
  • Christ, the Firstfruits from the Dead
  • 1 Corinthians 15 – The Firstfruits Harvest
• The Wavesheaf Ceremony (Harold Smith)
• The Spring Festivals (Samuele Bacchiocchi)
• The Resurrection of Messiah (Hoshana Rabbah)
• Nisan 17 Odds: One in 783,864,876,960,000,000 (Robin Sampson)
• Jesus’ Resurrection in First Fruits (Robin Sampson)

How to Celebrate

In our home, we celebrate the resurrection of Yeshua on the Feast of First Fruits, we give a monetary offering in remembrance of the tithes given in Israel, and we have yummy food and enjoy each other. Scripture does not say that this is a sabbath from work.

• Firstfruits Menu (Christine Miller)
• When we were growing up, my parents would remind us each day of the events of Yeshua’s death and resurrection during the week leading up to “Resurrection Sunday.” I still think this is a good idea to do with our children. See our guide to the events of that week (available April 4, 2014).
• In our home, we enjoy eating recipes containing barley on this day. We also enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season. If you enjoy music, sing every song about the resurrection and new life that you can think of.

Please Add Your Ideas!

We would love it if you would also add your ideas, tips, resources, and links in the comments below. Thank you!