Menachem, RebE, but what is the symbolism behind shmitah, and Torah seemingly means that this is symbolic, not just agricultural technology. If having something “seventh” is meaningful regardless of what it is, then any other “seventh” is also meaningful. The main argument “for” yom = 24 hours is based on preponderance of such statements in mesorah, although some sources may allow other allegories, and also reject other options based on the science of their days. As you read modern authors on both sides (some count actually 6 sides), each of them does not look fully proven (and that is why I am not bothering quoting any, sorry). I guess one lesson we can learn from history of science that sometimes one must suspend judgment until further information. Not everyone in history appreciated how much was still unknown and often “jumped to conclusions”.
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