A jubilee is a celebration or commemoration, often marked by festivities and rejoicing. It can also refer to a special year that marks an anniversary or significant event, such as the 50th anniversary of a country's independence being celebrated in a national jubilee. In some religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, a jubilee is a period of time during which debts are forgiven, slaves are set free, and people are allowed to return to their original homes. This concept comes from the idea that every fiftieth year should be one of liberation and restoration for all members of society.