The Bikkurim ceremony is about much more than just one farmer’s gratitude for his individual harvest. It is rather a reminder of the centrality of the Land of Israel, and the inalienable connection we have with this specific little corner of the world.
The rationale behind Shmita, is to create for us a “Shabbat Shabbaton” every 7 years. Like the contemporary Sabbatical, this results in a complete change in our routine, a break from the norm, a chance to recharge the batteries & then make a new start, refreshed & reinvigorated.