Jubilee

Definition and Origin

A Jubilee is a special anniversary of an event, particularly a 50th anniversary, though it can also refer to other significant anniversaries. The term is derived from the Hebrew word 'yobel', which refers to the blast of a ram's horn signifying the start of the jubilee year in the Jewish tradition.

Biblical Jubilee

In the Bible, the Jubilee is a year of emancipation and restoration, provided by ancient Jewish law to be kept every 50 years, in which slaves and prisoners would be freed, debts would be forgiven and the mercies of God would be particularly manifest. The concept of Jubilee is most prominently seen in the Leviticus 25:8-13.

Jubilee in Christianity

In Christianity, the term Jubilee has a special significance. The Roman Catholic Church has a tradition of declaring a Holy Year, also known as a Jubilee year, every 25 or 50 years. During this year, special indulgences are granted, and pilgrims flock to Rome and other religious sites. The most recent Jubilee year was in 2016, declared by Pope Francis.

Jubilee in Other Cultures

The concept of Jubilee is not exclusive to the Abrahamic faiths. Many cultures around the world have similar traditions of celebrating significant anniversaries. For example, in Japan, the Emperor's 60th year of reign is celebrated as a Jubilee.

Modern Usage

In modern times, the term Jubilee is often used to refer to the anniversary celebrations of significant events. For example, the 50th anniversary of a monarch's reign, such as the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II in 1977, is often referred to as a Jubilee. Similarly, institutions such as universities and corporations often celebrate their founding anniversaries as Jubilees.

See Also

• Anniversary
• Sabbatical Year
• Golden Jubilee
• Diamond Jubilee

A grand celebration with fireworks lighting up the night sky, signifying a jubilee.

A grand celebration with fireworks lighting up the night sky, signifying a jubilee.