◄ Leviticus 25:29 ►
If a man sells a house in a walled city, he retains his right of redemption until a full year after its sale; during that year it may be redeemed.
Study Bible
If a man sells a house
This phrase introduces the concept of property transactions within ancient Israelite society. The Hebrew word for "sells" is "מָכַר" (makar), which implies a transfer of ownership. In the context of Leviticus, selling a house was not merely a financial transaction but a significant familial and social decision. Houses were often tied to family heritage and identity, reflecting the deep connection between the Israelites and the land God had given them.

in a walled city
The specification of "a walled city" is crucial. Walled cities were centers of trade, security, and community life. The Hebrew term "עִיר חוֹמָה" (ir chomah) indicates a fortified settlement, which provided protection and a sense of permanence. The walls symbolized not only physical security but also a boundary of cultural and religious identity. This distinction highlights the difference in property laws between urban and rural settings, emphasizing the unique status of urban properties.

his right of redemption
The "right of redemption" is a key concept in Levitical law, rooted in the Hebrew word "גְּאֻלָּה" (ge'ullah). This right allowed the original owner or a close relative to reclaim property, reflecting God's desire for restoration and continuity within the community. Redemption laws underscored the importance of family and tribal inheritance, ensuring that property remained within the original family line, thus maintaining the social and economic stability ordained by God.

shall last a full year
The time frame of "a full year" (Hebrew: "תָּמִים שָׁנָה" - tamim shanah) provided a period of grace and reflection. This year-long period allowed the seller to gather resources or for a kinsman-redeemer to intervene. It reflects God's mercy and patience, offering a window for repentance and restoration. The full year symbolizes completeness and sufficiency, aligning with the biblical theme of God's perfect timing.

after its sale
The phrase "after its sale" indicates the point from which the redemption period is calculated. The sale marks a temporary separation from one's inheritance, but the provision for redemption ensures that this separation is not necessarily permanent. This reflects the biblical principle that God's people are never beyond the reach of His redemptive power, even when they have made decisions that lead to loss.

during that year it may be redeemed
The possibility that "it may be redeemed" during the specified year emphasizes hope and restoration. The Hebrew verb "גָּאַל" (ga'al) for "redeemed" is rich with theological significance, often used to describe God's redemptive acts for Israel. This provision mirrors the greater narrative of redemption found throughout Scripture, where God continually seeks to restore His people to their rightful place and relationship with Him. The opportunity for redemption is a testament to God's enduring faithfulness and grace.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Seller
The individual who sells a house within a walled city. This person is given a specific right of redemption, highlighting the importance of property and family heritage in Israelite society.

2. The Walled City
A city with protective walls, indicating a place of security and established community. The laws concerning property within these cities differ from those in rural areas.

3. The Right of Redemption
A legal provision allowing the original owner to reclaim their property within a specified period, reflecting God's concern for maintaining family inheritance and stability.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Community and Security
The walled city represents a place of safety and community. In our lives, we should seek to build and maintain secure and supportive communities.

God's Provision for Restoration
The right of redemption shows God's desire for restoration and second chances. We should be open to restoring relationships and situations in our lives.

The Value of Heritage and Legacy
The law underscores the importance of family heritage. We should consider how we can preserve and honor our spiritual and familial legacies.

The Principle of Redemption
Just as property could be redeemed, our lives are redeemed through Christ. This should inspire gratitude and a commitment to live according to God's will.

Balancing Justice and Mercy
The law balances justice (the sale of property) with mercy (the right of redemption). In our dealings, we should strive to balance fairness with compassion.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the concept of redemption in Leviticus 25:29 reflect God's character and His plans for His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of redemption in our personal relationships and communities today?

3. How does the right of redemption in Leviticus 25:29 connect to the broader theme of redemption found throughout the Bible?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our communities are places of security and support, similar to the walled cities?

5. How can understanding the value of heritage and legacy influence our decisions and actions in our spiritual and family lives?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Leviticus 25:23-28
These verses discuss the Year of Jubilee and the redemption of property, emphasizing God's provision for economic balance and family heritage.

Ruth 4:1-10
The account of Boaz redeeming Naomi's land illustrates the practice of redemption and the importance of preserving family lineage and property.

Hebrews 9:12
This verse speaks of Christ's eternal redemption, drawing a parallel to the concept of redemption in Leviticus, but on a spiritual and eternal level.
Sermons
A Sabbath of Rest unto the LandW. H. Jellie.Leviticus 25:2-55
Deliverance from SinHoward James.Leviticus 25:2-55
Freedom Through ChristT. De Witt Talmage.Leviticus 25:2-55
Jubilee GladnessJ. Cairns.Leviticus 25:2-55
Land Laws Among Other NationsM. M. Kalisch, Ph. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Land TenureT. T. Munger.Leviticus 25:2-55
Laws of Trade-WagesHom. ReviewLeviticus 25:2-55
Lessons from the Sabbatical YearF. W. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
Liberty Through ChristRichard Newton, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Man Need not Despair of -ProvidenceBp. Babington.Leviticus 25:2-55
Practical Reliance Upon GodIndian Witness.Leviticus 25:2-55
Released from DebtChristian AgeLeviticus 25:2-55
Results of Jubilee YearT. Guthrie, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
Sojourners with GodHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The Hebrew System of Land TenureR. Reid.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Joyful SoundC. S. Robinson, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The JubileeHomilistLeviticus 25:2-55
The Jubilee a Type of the GospelWm. Sleigh.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Jubilee Year: its Fourfold SignificanceW. H. Jellie.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Oppressor Rebuked and the Oppression RemovedC. F. S. Money, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Purpose of the Sabbatical YearM. M. Kalisch, Ph. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Resemblance Between the Year of Jubilee and the GospelT. B. Baker.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sabbath of the FieldsH. Macmillan, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sabbatic Year and JubileeJ. A. Seiss, D. D.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Sinner's Chains are Self ForgedPreacher's Lantern.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeA. G. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeA. H. Currier.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeWalter Roberts, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeD. C. Hughes, M. A.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeT. Binney.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year SabbathDr. Ide.Leviticus 25:2-55
What Shall We Eat the Seventh Year?A. G. Brown.Leviticus 25:2-55
The Year of JubileeR.A. Redford Leviticus 25:8-34
The JubileeR.M. Edgar Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of JubileeW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of Jubilee: Ii. the World's RedemptionW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
Year of Jubilee: Iii. the Blessed KingdomW. Clarkson Leviticus 25:8-55
RedemptionJ.A. Macdonald Leviticus 25:23-34
People
Israelites, Levites, Moses
Places
Canaan, Egypt, Mount Sinai
Topics
Completion, During, Dwelling, Dwelling-house, Full, Gives, Lasts, Likewise, Money, Redeem, Redemption, Remains, Retains, Sale, Sell, Selleth, Selling, Sells, Sold, Space, Thereof, Town, Valid, Walled, Within
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Leviticus 25:23-43

     5504   rights

Leviticus 25:29-30

     5256   city

Leviticus 25:29-33

     5478   property, houses

Leviticus 25:29-34

     5340   house

Library
Sojourners with God
'The land shall not be sold for ever: for the land is Mine; for ye are strangers and sojourners with Me.' --LEV. xxv. 23. The singular institution of the Jubilee year had more than one purpose. As a social and economical arrangement it tended to prevent the extremes of wealth and poverty. Every fiftieth year the land was to revert to its original owners, the lineal descendants of those who had 'come in with the conqueror,' Joshua. Debts were to be remitted, slaves emancipated, and so the mountains …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

God's Slaves
'For they are My servants, which I brought forth out of the land of Egypt; they shall not be sold as bondmen.' --LEV. xxv. 42. This is the basis of the Mosaic legislation as to slavery. It did not suppress but regulated that accursed system. Certainly Hebrew slavery was a very different thing from that of other nations. In the first place, no Jew was to be a slave. To that broad principle there were exceptions, such as the case of the man who voluntarily gave himself up to his creditor. But even …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Kinsman Redeemer
'After that he is sold he may be redeemed again; one of his brethren may redeem him.'--LEV. xxv. 48. There are several of the institutions and precepts of the Mosaic legislation which, though not prophetic, nor typical, have yet remarkable correspondences with lofty Christian truth. They may be used as symbols, if only we remember that we are diverting them from their original purpose. How singularly these words lend themselves to the statement of the very central truths of Christianity--a slavery …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Boniface viii Ad 1294-1303.
PART I In Celestine's place was chosen Benedict Gaetani, who, although even older than the worn-out and doting late pope, was still full of strength, both in body and in mind. Benedict (who took the name of Boniface VIII) is said to have been very learned, especially in matters at law; but his pride and ambition led him into attempts which ended in his own ruin, and did serious harm to the papacy. In the year 1300 Boniface set on foot what was called the Jubilee. You will remember the Jubilee which …
J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation

The Kinsman-Redeemer
'Their Redeemer is strong; the Lord of Hosts is His name: He shall thoroughly plead their cause.'--JER. l. 34. Among the remarkable provisions of the Mosaic law there were some very peculiar ones affecting the next-of-kin. The nearest living blood relation to a man had certain obligations and offices to discharge, under certain contingencies, in respect of which he received a special name; which is sometimes translated in the Old Testament 'Redeemer,' and sometimes 'Avenger' of blood. What the etymological …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Day of Atonement
Now, I shall invite your attention to the ceremonies of this solemn day, taking the different parts in detail. First, we shall consider the person who made the atonement; secondly, the sacrifice whereby the atonement was typically made; thirdly, the effects of the atonement; and fourthly, our behaviour on the recollection of the atonement, as well set forth by the conduct prescribed to the Israelites on that day. I. First, THE PERSON WHO WAS TO MAKE THE ATONEMENT. And at the outset, we remark that …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

Appeal to the Christian Women of the South
BY A.E. GRIMKE. "Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not within thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place: but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this. And Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer:--and so will I go in unto the king, …
Angelina Emily Grimke—An Appeal to the Christian Women of the South

Sin and Forgiveness Between Brethren.
(Autumn, a.d. 29.) ^A Matt. XVIII. 15-35. ^a 15 And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. [Having warned against giving offense, Jesus now shows how to act when offense is received. The fault is to be pointed out to the offender, but for the purpose of gaining him--not from a desire to humiliate him. The offended is to seek the offender, and the offender is likewise to seek the offended (Matt. xv. 23, 24), …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Commerce
The remarkable change which we have noticed in the views of Jewish authorities, from contempt to almost affectation of manual labour, could certainly not have been arbitrary. But as we fail to discover here any religious motive, we can only account for it on the score of altered political and social circumstances. So long as the people were, at least nominally, independent, and in possession of their own land, constant engagement in a trade would probably mark an inferior social stage, and imply …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life

"And the Redeemer Shall Come unto Zion, and unto them that Turn,"
Isaiah lix. 20.--"And the Redeemer shall come unto Zion, and unto them that turn," &c. Doctrines, as things, have their seasons and times. Every thing is beautiful in its season. So there is no word of truth, but it hath a season and time in which it is beautiful. And indeed that is a great part of wisdom, to bring forth everything in its season, to discern when and where, and to whom it is pertinent and edifying, to speak such and such truths. But there is one doctrine that is never out of season, …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Eighth Commandment
Thou shalt not steal.' Exod 20: 15. AS the holiness of God sets him against uncleanness, in the command Thou shalt not commit adultery;' so the justice of God sets him against rapine and robbery, in the command, Thou shalt not steal.' The thing forbidden in this commandment, is meddling with another man's property. The civil lawyers define furtum, stealth or theft to be the laying hands unjustly on that which is another's;' the invading another's right. I. The causes of theft. [1] The internal causes …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Baptism
Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them,' &c. Matt 28: 19. I. The way whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemptions, is, in the use of the sacraments. What are the sacraments in general? They are visible signs of invisible grace. Is not the word of God sufficient to salvation? What need then is there of sacraments? We must not be wise above what is written. It is God's will that his church …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Leviticus
The emphasis which modern criticism has very properly laid on the prophetic books and the prophetic element generally in the Old Testament, has had the effect of somewhat diverting popular attention from the priestly contributions to the literature and religion of Israel. From this neglect Leviticus has suffered most. Yet for many reasons it is worthy of close attention; it is the deliberate expression of the priestly mind of Israel at its best, and it thus forms a welcome foil to the unattractive …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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