New Moon

The first day of each lunar month (the new moon) was observed in Israel as a minor holy day. Special sacrifices were ordained: two young bulls, one ram, seven one-year-old lambs for a burnt offering, plus appropriate grain and drink offerings and a male goat for a sin offering (Num. 28:11–15). The trumpets were sounded (Num. 10:10; Ps. 81:3), and the temple was opened for public worship (Isa. 66:23; Ezek. 46:3). Commercial activity ceased, as Amos's merchants complained: "When will the new moon be over, that we may sell grain?" (Amos 8:5).

New moon celebrations could be occasions for prophets to be consulted (2 Kings 4:23) and for family gatherings (1 Sam. 20:5). Paul mentions new moons alongside Sabbaths and festivals as elements of the Mosaic calendar that are a "shadow of things to come" fulfilled in Christ (Col. 2:16–17). The eschatological vision of Isaiah 66:23 portrays all humanity worshipping before God at each new moon and Sabbath.