Leviticus 25:28

But if he cannot obtain enough to repay him, what he sold will remain in possession of the buyer until the Year of Jubilee. In the Jubilee, however, it is to be released, so that he may return to his property.

Study Bible

But if he cannot obtain enough to repay him
This phrase addresses the situation of an Israelite who has sold his property due to financial hardship. The Hebrew root for "obtain enough" is "matsa," which means to find or secure. This reflects the struggle and effort required to regain one's lost inheritance. In the ancient agrarian society of Israel, land was not just property but a God-given inheritance, a source of identity and sustenance. The inability to "repay" signifies a deeper social and economic vulnerability, highlighting the need for divine provision and community support.

what he sold will remain in the hands of the buyer
The phrase "will remain in the hands of the buyer" underscores the temporary transfer of property rights. In ancient Israel, land transactions were not permanent; they were more akin to long-term leases. The Hebrew word "yad," translated as "hands," often symbolizes power or control. This indicates that the buyer has control over the land, but this control is not absolute or eternal. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human ownership in contrast to God's ultimate sovereignty over the land.

until the Year of Jubilee
The "Year of Jubilee" is a central theme in Leviticus 25, representing a time of liberation and restoration. The Hebrew word "yovel" refers to the ram's horn trumpet used to announce this year. Historically, the Jubilee occurred every 50th year and was a time when debts were forgiven, slaves were freed, and land was returned to its original family owners. This practice reflects God's desire for social justice, economic balance, and the restoration of community relationships. It serves as a powerful symbol of hope and renewal, pointing to the ultimate redemption found in Christ.

In the Jubilee it will be returned
The phrase "it will be returned" emphasizes the restoration of the original order. The Hebrew verb "shuv" means to return or restore, signifying a reversal of fortunes and a return to God's intended design for His people. This act of returning land is not just a legal transaction but a divine mandate that ensures the preservation of family heritage and social stability. It reflects God's grace and mercy, offering a fresh start and a reminder of His covenant faithfulness.

and he can return to his property
The final phrase, "he can return to his property," highlights the personal and familial restoration that the Jubilee brings. The Hebrew word "achuzah" for "property" denotes a possession or inheritance, emphasizing the deep connection between the people and the land. This return is not merely physical but also spiritual, as it restores the individual's place within the community and reaffirms their identity as part of God's chosen people. It serves as a foretaste of the ultimate restoration and inheritance believers have in Christ, where all things will be made new.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
God's chosen people, to whom the laws of Leviticus were given. They were to live according to God's commandments and statutes.

2. The Year of Jubilee
A special year occurring every 50th year, during which slaves were freed, debts were forgiven, and land was returned to its original owners. It was a time of restoration and freedom.

3. The Buyer
The individual who purchased the land from the original owner. The buyer holds the land until the Year of Jubilee if the original owner cannot redeem it.

4. The Original Owner
The person who sold the land due to financial hardship. They have the right to redeem their land if they can gather the necessary resources before the Year of Jubilee.

5. The Land
Represents God's provision and inheritance for the Israelites. It was not to be permanently sold because it ultimately belonged to God.

Teaching Points

God's Ownership and Provision
The land ultimately belongs to God, reminding us that everything we have is a gift from Him. We are stewards, not owners.

Restoration and Hope
The Year of Jubilee symbolizes hope and restoration. In Christ, we have the ultimate restoration and hope for eternal life.

Redemption and Forgiveness
Just as the land could be redeemed, we are redeemed by Christ. This teaches us about the importance of forgiveness and second chances.

Social Justice and Equity
The Jubilee laws ensured that wealth and resources were not permanently concentrated in the hands of a few. This calls us to consider issues of justice and equity in our communities.

Trust in God's Timing
The return of the land in the Jubilee year teaches us to trust in God's timing and provision, even when immediate circumstances seem challenging.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Year of Jubilee reflect God's character and His intentions for His people?

2. In what ways can the principles of the Jubilee be applied to modern issues of debt and economic inequality?

3. How does the idea of redemption in Leviticus 25:28 connect to the redemption we have in Christ?

4. What does the temporary nature of land ownership in Leviticus teach us about our relationship with material possessions today?

5. How can we, as a church community, embody the spirit of the Jubilee in our interactions with one another and the wider community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:10
This verse introduces the concept of the Year of Jubilee, emphasizing liberty and restoration, which is central to understanding verse 28.

Luke 4:18-19
Jesus references the Year of Jubilee in His mission statement, highlighting themes of liberation and restoration.

Galatians 5:1
Paul speaks of the freedom believers have in Christ, which echoes the liberation themes of the Jubilee.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the rest that remains for the people of God, paralleling the rest and restoration found in the Jubilee.