1 The Lord spoke to Moses on Mount Sinai, saying,
2 “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When you come into the land that I give you, the land shall keep a Sabbath to the Lord.
3 For six years you shall sow your field, and for six years you shall prune your vineyard and gather in its fruits,
4 but in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a Sabbath to the Lord.
5 You shall not reap what grows of itself in your harvest, or gather the grapes of your undressed vine. It shall be a year of solemn rest for the land.
6 The Sabbath of the land shall provide food for you, for yourself and for your male and female slaves and for your hired worker and the sojourner who lives with you,
7 And for your livestock also, and for the beasts that are in your land—all its yield shall be for food.
8 “You shall count seven weeks of years, seven times seven years, so that the time of the seven weeks of years shall give you forty-nine years.
9 Then you shall sound the loud trumpet on the tenth day of the seventh month. On the Day of Atonement you shall sound the trumpet throughout all your land.
10 And you shall consecrate the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you, when each of you shall return to his property and each of you shall return to his clan.
11 That fiftieth year shall be a jubilee for you; in it you shall neither sow nor reap what grows of itself nor gather the grapes from the undressed vines.
12 For it is a jubilee. It shall be holy to you. You may eat the produce of the field.
13 “In this year of jubilee each of you shall return to his property.
14 And if you make a sale to your neighbor or buy from your neighbor, you shall not wrong one another.
15 You shall pay your neighbor according to the number of years after the jubilee, and he shall sell to you according to the number of years for crops.
16 According to the number of years after the jubilee, you shall buy from your neighbor, and according to the number of years for crops he shall sell to you.
17 You shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God, for I am the Lord your God.
18 “Therefore you shall do my statutes and keep my rules and perform them, and then you will dwell in the land securely.”
19 Then the land will yield its fruit, and you will eat your fill and dwell in it securely.
20 And if you say, ‘What shall we eat in the seventh year, if we may not sow or gather in our crop?’
21 I will command my blessing on you in the sixth year, so that it will produce a crop sufficient for three years.
22 And you shall sow the eighth year, and eat some of the old growth until the ninth year; you shall eat of the old harvest until its yield.
23 “The land shall not be sold in perpetuity, for the land is mine. For you are strangers and sojourners with me.”
24 And in all the country you possess, you shall allow a redemption of the land.
25 If your brother becomes poor and sells part of his property, then his nearest redeemer shall come and redeem what his brother has sold.
26 If a man has no one to redeem it and then himself becomes prosperous and finds sufficient means to redeem it,
27 then let him calculate the years since he sold it and pay back the balance to the man to whom he sold it, and then return to his property.
28 But if he has not sufficient means to recover it, then what he sold shall remain in the hand of the buyer until the year of jubilee. In the jubilee it shall be released, and he shall return to his property.
29 “If a man sells a dwelling house in a walled city, he may redeem it within a year of its sale. For a full year he shall have the right of redemption.
30 If it is not redeemed within a full year, then the house in the walled city shall belong in perpetuity to the buyer, throughout his generations; it shall not be released in the jubilee.
31 But the houses of the villages that have no wall around them shall be classified with the fields of the land. They may be redeemed, and they shall be released in the jubilee.
32 As for the cities of the Levites, the Levites may redeem at any time the houses in the cities they possess.
33 And if one of the Levites exercises his right of redemption, then the house that was sold in a city they possess shall be released in the jubilee. For the houses in the cities of the Levites are their possession among the people of Israel.
34 But the field of the pastureland of their cities may not be sold, for it is their possession forever.
35 “If your brother becomes poor and cannot maintain himself with you, you shall support him as though he were a stranger and a sojourner, and he shall live with you.
36 Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God, that your brother may live beside you.
37 You shall not give him your money at interest, nor give him your food for profit.
38 I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt to give you the land of Canaan, and to be your God.
39 “If your brother becomes poor beside you and sells himself to you, you shall not make him serve as a slave.
40 They shall be with you as hired workers and sojourners. They shall serve you until the year of the jubilee.
41 Then he shall go out from you, he and his children with him, and go back to his own clan and return to the possession of his fathers.
42 For they are my servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt; they shall not be sold as slaves.
43 You shall not rule over him ruthlessly but shall fear your God.
44 As for your male and female slaves whom you may have: you may buy male and female slaves from among the nations that are around you.
45 You may also buy from among the strangers who sojourn with you and their clans that are with you, who have been born in your land, and they may be your property.
46 You may bequeath them to your sons after you to inherit as a possession forever. You may make slaves of them, but over your brothers the people of Israel you shall not rule, one over another ruthlessly.
47 “If a stranger or sojourner with you becomes rich, and your brother beside him becomes poor and sells himself to the stranger or sojourner with you or to a member of the stranger’s clan,
48 then after he is sold he may be redeemed. One of his brothers may redeem him,
49 or his uncle or his cousin may redeem him or, if he grows rich, he may redeem himself.
50 He shall calculate with his buyer from the year when he sold himself to him until the year of jubilee, and the price of his sale shall vary with the number of years.
51 If there are still many years left, he shall pay proportionately for his redemption some of his sale price.
52 If there remain but a few years until the year of jubilee, he shall calculate and pay for his redemption in proportion to his years.
53 They shall be with him as servants forever.
54 And if he is not redeemed by these means, then he and his children with him shall be released in the year of jubilee.
55 For it is to me that the people of Israel are servants. They are my servants whom I brought out of the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.
The True Meaning of Leviticus 25
The book of Leviticus was written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. Moses provides the people with instructions from God regarding the observance of the Sabbath year and the Year of Jubilee in this chapter. These laws were meant to ensure the land’s rest, the release of slaves, and the restoration of property to its original owners. As we delve into this chapter, we will see how these divine commands were intended to promote justice, compassion, and a deep reverence for the Lord among the Israelites. The Sabbath year and the Year of Jubilee were not mere formalities, but rather, they were meant to shape the very fabric of the Israelite society, reflecting God’s desire for His people to live in harmony with one another and with the land He had given them.
The principles outlined in this chapter echo the themes of rest, redemption, and restoration that we find throughout the Scriptures. From the creation story in Genesis to the prophecies of a coming Messiah, the Bible consistently points to God’s plan to restore His creation and His relationship with humanity. As we study this passage, let us be reminded of the importance of obedience, trust, and a willingness to surrender our lives to the will of the Almighty.
Leviticus 25:1-7
The verses in Leviticus 25:1-7 introduce the concept of the Sabbatical Year. The Sabbatical Year was observed every seventh year, during which the fields were to lay fallow—no planting or harvesting was to take place. This practice allowed the land to rest, replenish its nutrients, and prevented the depletion of resources. The Sabbatical Year was a way for the Israelites to trust in God’s provision and demonstrate their obedience to His commandments.
The Sabbatical Year was not just about resting the land; it also had social implications. Verse 6 mentions that whatever the land produced during the Sabbatical Year was to be for all, including the Israelites, their servants, hired workers, resident foreigners, and livestock. This highlights the idea of equality and provision for all, regardless of social status. It reinforces the principle of stewardship and the importance of caring for the less fortunate in society.
Furthermore, in verse 7, it is emphasized that even wild animals were included in this provision during the Sabbatical Year. This shows God’s concern for all His creation, not just humans. It reminds us of God’s role as the Creator of all things, who cares for every aspect of His creation, demonstrating His love and compassion for every living being.
The Sabbatical Year was part of God’s design to teach His people about trust, provision, stewardship, and care for others. It served as a reminder that ultimately, all the land and its produce belonged to God, and the Israelites were merely temporary caretakers. This concept of stewardship is reiterated in other parts of the Bible, such as Psalm 24:1, which states, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Leviticus 25:1-7 teaches us the importance of resting, trusting in God’s provision, caring for others, and recognizing our role as stewards of God’s creation. It is a timeless message that encourages us to reflect on how we interact with the world around us and our responsibility to care for it in a way that honors God’s intentions.
Leviticus 25:8-17
The verse in Leviticus 25:8-17 discusses the concept of the Year of Jubilee in the religious laws given to the Israelites by God through Moses. The Year of Jubilee was to occur every 50 years and it had several important implications for the people of Israel.
The first section, verses 8-10, outlines the importance of the Year of Jubilee as a time of release and freedom. It was a special year when debts were forgiven, slaves were set free, and land that had been sold was returned to its original owner. This was a way for God to remind the Israelites that ultimately everything belonged to Him, and that they were all equal in His sight. The notion of releasing debts and freeing slaves was not only a practical way to ensure economic stability and social justice, but it also symbolized spiritual freedom and renewal.
The impact of the Year of Jubilee on the socio-economic structure of Israel was profound. It prevented the concentration of wealth and power in a few hands by ensuring that land remained with the original families to whom it was given by God. The reset every 50 years allowed for a fresh start and prevented generational poverty from taking root. This practice promoted a sense of community and solidarity among the people, emphasizing the idea of caring for one another rather than exploiting each other for personal gain.
The mention of the sounding of the ram’s horn to inaugurate the Year of Jubilee was significant. The blowing of the horn signified a time of joy, celebration, and deliverance. It marked the beginning of a holy period where blessings and restoration were to be experienced by all. This practice echoes throughout the Bible, as the sounding of the horn was often associated with important events and divine interventions. For example, the Israelites circled the city of Jericho and the walls fell after the blowing of horns (Joshua 6), and the trumpet will sound when Christ returns (1 Thessalonians 4:16). The Year of Jubilee in Leviticus 25 serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness, justice, and provision for His people. It emphasizes the principles of stewardship, compassion, and social responsibility. The Year of Jubilee reveals God’s heart for restoration and liberation, ultimately pointing to the ultimate Jubilee found in Jesus Christ, who proclaimed freedom to the captives and release to the oppressed (Luke 4:18-19).
Leviticus 25:18-22
The verses in Leviticus 25:18-22 establish the principle of the Sabbath year in the context of the Israelites and their relationship with the land. The Sabbath year was a designated time when the Israelites were instructed to let the land rest and lay fallow. This practice was a command from God to ensure sustainable agriculture and to remind the Israelites that the land ultimately belonged to Him.
The significance of the Sabbath year goes beyond just agricultural practices; it also emphasizes trust in God’s provision. The Israelites had to trust that God would provide enough food to sustain them during that time by allowing the land to rest every seventh year. This act of faith and obedience served as a reminder that God was the ultimate provider and sustainer of their lives.
Furthermore, these verses highlight the importance of stewardship and responsibility in how the Israelites interacted with the land. God instructed them not to sow their fields or prune their vineyards during the Sabbath year, showing that they were caretakers of the land rather than owners. This principle of stewardship is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of respecting and caring for God’s creation.
The consequences of not observing the Sabbath year were made clear in these verses. God warned that if the Israelites did not allow the land to rest, it would become unproductive and their enemies would conquer them. This served as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people – obedience to His commands would result in blessings, while disobedience would lead to negative consequences.
The Sabbath year concept is also linked to the idea of Jubilee, which is outlined in the subsequent verses of Leviticus 25. The Jubilee occurred every 50 years and involved the release of slaves, return of ancestral lands, and a time of rest and renewal. It was a powerful expression of God’s justice, mercy, and provision for His people. The principles outlined in Leviticus 25:18-22 resonate throughout both the Old and New Testaments in the wider context of the Bible. They underscore God’s sovereignty over all creation, His desire for His people to trust in His provision, and the importance of stewardship and obedience. Jesus Himself referenced the concept of Jubilee in his ministry, preaching about freedom for the oppressed and the coming of God’s kingdom (Luke 4:16-21). These verses in Leviticus serve as a timeless reminder of the importance of honoring God’s commands, trusting in His provision, and practicing responsible stewardship of the resources He has given us.
Leviticus 25:23-28
Leviticus 25:23-28 covers several significant sections regarding the ownership of land, redemption of property, and the Year of Jubilee within the context of the Israelites. This passage begins by asserting that the land ultimately belongs to the Lord, and the Israelites are considered as tenants on His land. This reminder was crucial in reinforcing the idea that everything they possessed was ultimately a gift from God, and they were to treat their land and possessions with respect and in accordance with His laws. This principle of God as the ultimate owner of all things serves as a foundational concept in the Bible, highlighting the importance of stewardship and gratitude towards God for His provisions.
The passage continues by discussing the concept of redemption in the context of property. If someone becomes poor and has to sell their property, their close relative has the right to redeem it. This act of redemption was based on the idea of restoring a person to their original state or ownership – ensuring that the land stayed within the family and did not permanently pass into the hands of another. This practice of redemption carried deep symbolic and practical significance, emphasizing the value of family, community, and the preservation of inheritance within the Israelite society. The passage introduces the concept of the Year of Jubilee, which occurred every fifty years. During the Jubilee year, all property that had been sold was to be returned to its original owners. This practice was put in place to prevent the permanent loss of ancestral land and to provide an opportunity for those who had become impoverished to have a fresh start. The Year of Jubilee symbolized restoration, freedom, and equality, embodying God’s mercy and provision for His people.
The principles outlined in these passages carry timeless messages that are still relevant today. They emphasize the importance of recognizing God as the ultimate owner of everything we possess, promoting stewardship and gratitude. Additionally, they highlight the values of redemption, family ties, community support, and social justice. The Year of Jubilee serves as a powerful reminder of God’s ultimate desire for restoration, freedom, and equality among His people, echoing themes of redemption and renewal found throughout the Bible. Themes of redemption, restoration, and stewardship are echoed in various passages when connecting these teachings to other parts of the Bible. For instance, in the New Testament, the concept of redemption through Jesus Christ is a central theme. “We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace,” states Ephesians 1:7.” This verse underscores the idea of redemption as a spiritual concept, highlighting the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice for believers. Leviticus 25:23-28 provides valuable insights into God’s laws regarding property ownership, redemption, and the Year of Jubilee within the Israelite society. These teachings offer timeless lessons on stewardship, community support, and God’s desire for restoration and justice among His people, reflecting overarching themes of redemption and grace that resonate throughout the Bible.
Leviticus 25:29-34
A section of the chapter in Leviticus 25:29-34 elaborates on the regulations regarding the sale of houses in a walled city. The verse states that if someone sells a house in a walled city, after selling it, they have a year to buy it back. However, if it is not redeemed within a year, then the house shall permanently belong to the buyer throughout their generations and it shall not be released in the Year of Jubilee.
This passage reflects the importance of property ownership and the implications of selling one’s ancestral land. God gave the land as a sacred inheritance in ancient Israelite society, not just as a possession. The practice of allowing the seller to redeem the house within a year speaks to the value placed on ancestral heritage and the opportunity for repentance or correction of hasty decisions.
This regulation enforced a sense of responsibility, ensuring that families could potentially regain their property within a reasonable timeframe. It also highlights the principle of fairness and compassion, providing a safety net for those who may have faced difficult circumstances leading to the sale of their property.
The Year of Jubilee was a significant concept in ancient Israel as it represented a time of restoration and freedom. During the Year of Jubilee, all debts were forgiven, slaves were set free, and ancestral lands that had been sold were returned to their original owners. This practice reinforced the idea of God’s provision and care for His people, emphasizing the importance of justice and equality within society.
Furthermore, the mention of the walled city is interesting as it distinguishes between urban and rural areas. Walled cities were often places of commerce and strategic importance, and the regulations regarding property within these cities were different from those in rural areas. This differentiation underscores the need for specific guidelines tailored to different contexts within society. These verses in Leviticus 25 serve as a reminder of the importance of stewardship, justice, and the preservation of ancestral inheritance. They illustrate God’s concern for the well-being of His people and provide a framework for ethical living and communal harmony based on principles of fairness and compassion.
Leviticus 25:35-38
Leviticus 25:35-38 focuses on the treatment of fellow Israelites in times of financial difficulty. The verses urge the Israelites to provide support to their brothers who become impoverished and struggle to maintain their livelihood. It establishes a system of lending among the community, emphasizing the importance of showing compassion and generosity towards those in need.
The section begins by highlighting that if one of their fellow countrymen becomes poor and cannot support himself, his fellow Israelites should help him by providing financial assistance. This instruction reflects the underlying principle of caring for one another and demonstrating kindness and solidarity within the community. It reinforces the idea of mutual support and responsibility among the people of Israel.
The text then clarifies that this assistance should not be in the form of a business transaction aimed at making a profit from the situation. Instead, the Israelites are advised against charging interest or making a profit when lending money or providing food to those in need. This prohibition on charging interest is in line with other biblical teachings that emphasize fairness and justice in financial dealings, promoting charity over exploitation.
Furthermore, the passage underscores the significance of remembering God’s commandments and honoring His laws while interacting with one another. The Israelites fulfill their duty to their neighbors and express their obedience to God’s will by following these guidelines and demonstrating compassion towards the less fortunate.
The principles outlined in Leviticus 25:35-38 resonate throughout the Bible, reinforcing the themes of compassion, justice, and stewardship. For instance, in Proverbs 19:17, it states, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” This verse emphasizes the spiritual significance of helping those in need and how acts of kindness towards others are considered as offerings to God. Leviticus 25:35-38 serves as a reminder of the importance of generosity, compassion, and ethical behavior in the community, reflecting the timeless message of treating others with kindness and upholding moral values in all aspects of life.
Leviticus 25:39-43
The passage in Leviticus 25:39-43 discusses the scenario of an Israelite becoming impoverished and selling himself to another Israelite as a hired worker. The text highlights that this should not be viewed as a permanent enslavement but rather as a temporary situation until the Year of Jubilee. During the Year of Jubilee, all debts were to be forgiven, all slaves were to be set free, and all ancestral lands that had been sold were to be returned to their original owners. This practice was established by God to ensure that the Israelites did not fall into a cycle of perpetual poverty and enslavement.
This section of Leviticus underscores the importance of compassion, fairness, and social justice within the community of God’s people. It emphasizes the principle of taking care of the vulnerable and providing opportunities for those in need to regain their footing. The Year of Jubilee served as a concrete demonstration of God’s grace and provision for His people, showing that He cared for their well-being and desired them to live in harmony and equality.
The concept of the Year of Jubilee reflects the overarching themes of redemption and restoration found throughout the Bible. It points to the ultimate freedom and release from bondage that believers experience through Jesus Christ. Jesus quotes from Isaiah 61 in Luke 4:18-19, proclaiming that He came to preach the good news to the poor, to proclaim freedom for the prisoners, and to release the oppressed. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus offers a spiritual jubilee, granting forgiveness of sins and liberation from the bondage of sin and death. We, as Christians, are called to emulate the spirit of the Year of Jubilee in our interactions with others. We are to show compassion to the marginalized, advocate for justice for the oppressed, and extend forgiveness and grace to those who are in need. Just as the Year of Jubilee offered a fresh start and a new beginning to the Israelites, we are reminded of God’s unending mercy and His desire to see His people living in unity and love.
Leviticus 25:44-46
Leviticus 25:44-46 touches upon several important aspects that reflect the social structure and guidelines outlined in the Old Testament. The verses state, “Your male and female slaves are to come from the nations around you; from them you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clans born in your country, and they will become your property. You can bequeath them to your children as inherited property and can make them slaves for life, but you must not rule over your fellow Israelites ruthlessly.”
The concept of slavery in the Bible is a complex one and has been a topic of debate and scrutiny over the centuries. While these verses seem to legitimize the practice of owning slaves, it is essential to understand the historical and cultural context of the time. Ancient societies had a widespread institution of slavery, and these verses intended to provide some limitations and protections to slaves within the Hebrew community.
The emphasis on not treating fellow Israelites as ruthlessly as slaves from other nations is significant. It demonstrates a distinction between the treatment of those within the community versus outsiders. This idea correlates with other passages in the Bible that stress the importance of caring for one’s own, such as Galatians 6:10 which says, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
These verses in Leviticus also bring attention to the concept of inheritance and property ownership within the Jewish society. Slaves were considered part of a family’s property and could be passed down through generations. While this may seem harsh and cruel by modern standards, it was a common practice at the time. The Bible addresses this practice, and throughout the text, there are instances where the treatment of slaves is regulated, such as in Exodus 21:20-21, where it is outlined that if a slave is mistreated and dies, the owner shall be punished. These verses in Leviticus may be challenging for us to comprehend and accept in today’s world, but they offer insight into the social structure and regulations of ancient Israelite society. It is crucial to approach these texts with an understanding of the historical context and the gradual progression of ethical standards throughout the Bible. Believers should consider the guiding principle of love, compassion, and fairness towards all people, as taught by Jesus in the New Testament, when contemplating challenging passages from the Old Testament.
Leviticus 25:47-55
The verses in Leviticus 25:47-55 present a detailed explanation of the laws regarding the redemption of Israelites who have become poor and sold themselves as servants to resident aliens or temporary residents among them. It begins by highlighting the plight of an Israelite who may have fallen into poverty and the unfortunate circumstances that led him to sell himself to a foreigner living in Israel. This scenario underscores the vulnerability and need for protection of individuals who have faced economic hardship.
The concept of redemption in these verses is significant as it reflects God’s concern for the oppressed and His desire for justice and fairness among His people. The idea of redemption is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing God’s role as Redeemer and Deliverer. It also points to the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our sins and freed us from the bondage of sin and death.
Furthermore, the verses outline the process of redemption, where a relative of the Israelite is given the opportunity to redeem him and restore him to his rightful place among his people. This act of redemption not only demonstrates familial responsibility but also illustrates the importance of community and unity among the Israelites. This communal aspect of redemption is echoed in the New Testament, particularly in passages emphasizing the role of the church as a community of believers who support and care for one another (Galatians 6:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:11).
The verses also touch upon the concept of servanthood and freedom. While the Israelite may have sold himself into servitude due to poverty, these laws ensure that there is a pathway to freedom and restoration. This resonates with the overarching theme of liberation and freedom in the Bible, culminating in the ultimate freedom found in Christ (John 8:36, Galatians 5:1). Leviticus 25:47-55 provides valuable insights into the principles of redemption, community responsibility, and justice within the context of ancient Israelite society. The timeless message of these verses transcends the specific historical context and continues to resonate with believers today, reminding us of God’s compassion, provision, and faithfulness towards His people.
After Leviticus 25
The Lord spoke to Moses on Mount Sinai, saying, “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When you come into the land that I give you, the land shall keep a Sabbath to the Lord. For six years you shall sow your field, and for six years you shall prune your vineyard and gather in its fruits, but in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a Sabbath to the Lord. You shall not sow your field or prune your vineyard. You shall not reap what grows of itself in your harvest, or gather the grapes of your undressed vine. It shall be a year of solemn rest for the land.”
And so the Lord commanded the people of Israel to observe the Sabbath year, a time of rest and restoration for the land. This was a sacred practice, a testament to the people’s faith and obedience to the Almighty. We shall see how the Israelites responded to this divine instruction and the blessings that would flow from their faithful observance as we move forward.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.