Leviticus 25:16

You shall increase the price in proportion to a greater number of years, or decrease it in proportion to a lesser number of years; for he is selling you a given number of harvests.

Study Bible

In proportion to a greater number of years
This phrase emphasizes the principle of fairness and equity in economic transactions, rooted in the Hebrew concept of "mishpat," meaning justice or judgment. The context here is the Year of Jubilee, a time when land would return to its original family owners every fifty years. The "greater number of years" refers to the time remaining until the next Jubilee. The longer the period, the more harvests the buyer can expect, thus justifying a higher price. This reflects God's desire for His people to practice fairness and avoid exploitation, ensuring that economic practices honor the dignity and rights of all individuals.

you shall increase the price
The Hebrew root for "increase" is "rabah," which means to multiply or make numerous. This instruction is a practical application of the Jubilee laws, ensuring that the price of land reflects its productive potential over time. It underscores the importance of integrity in business dealings, a principle that resonates throughout Scripture. By increasing the price proportionally, the seller acknowledges the value of the land's future yield, promoting a just and honest transaction.

and in proportion to a lesser number of years
This phrase continues the theme of proportionality and fairness. The "lesser number of years" indicates fewer harvests before the Jubilee, necessitating a lower price. This reflects the Hebrew principle of "tzedek," or righteousness, which calls for equitable treatment in all aspects of life. The instruction serves as a reminder that God's people are to conduct their affairs with an awareness of His justice, ensuring that no one is disadvantaged by the timing of the Jubilee.

you shall decrease the price
The Hebrew word for "decrease" is "ma'at," meaning to diminish or reduce. This command ensures that the economic burden on the buyer is fair and just, considering the limited time they will benefit from the land. It highlights God's concern for the well-being of His people, advocating for a system where economic transactions do not lead to oppression or hardship. This principle of reducing the price aligns with the broader biblical theme of compassion and care for one's neighbor.

for he is selling you a number of harvests
This phrase clarifies the basis for the pricing structure, focusing on the land's productive capacity rather than its intrinsic value. The "number of harvests" represents the potential yield, which is the true commodity being exchanged. This perspective shifts the focus from ownership to stewardship, reminding the Israelites that the land ultimately belongs to God (Leviticus 25:23). It encourages a mindset of responsible management and gratitude for God's provision, reinforcing the idea that all economic activity should reflect His principles of justice and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including those in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God to whom the laws in Leviticus were given.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Sabbath Year
Every seventh year, the land was to rest, and debts were to be forgiven.

5. Year of Jubilee
Every fiftieth year, liberty was proclaimed throughout the land, and properties were returned to their original owners.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Economic Principles
God's laws in Leviticus 25 teach us about fairness and justice in economic transactions. The principle of adjusting prices based on the number of harvests until the Jubilee reflects God's concern for equity and the well-being of all community members.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Possessions
The instructions in Leviticus 25 remind us that earthly possessions are temporary. As Christians, we are called to focus on eternal values and to hold our material goods loosely, recognizing that they ultimately belong to God.

Practicing Fairness and Integrity
In our business dealings and personal finances, we should strive to practice fairness and integrity, ensuring that our actions reflect God's justice and compassion.

Trusting in God's Provision
The laws regarding the Sabbath Year and the Year of Jubilee encourage us to trust in God's provision. By following His commands, the Israelites demonstrated their faith that God would provide for their needs.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of adjusting prices based on the number of harvests until the Jubilee reflect God's character and His concern for justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of the Year of Jubilee to our modern economic practices and personal financial decisions?

3. How does the temporary nature of property ownership in Leviticus 25 challenge our perspective on material possessions today?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate fairness and integrity in our financial dealings, both personally and professionally?

5. How can trusting in God's provision, as seen in the laws of the Sabbath Year and Jubilee, impact our approach to financial planning and generosity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25:10
This verse introduces the Year of Jubilee, which is the context for the pricing instructions in verse 16.

Deuteronomy 15:1-2
Discusses the release of debts every seven years, which parallels the concept of adjusting prices based on time until the Jubilee.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, which relates to the temporary nature of earthly possessions highlighted in Leviticus 25.

James 5:1-6
Warns against hoarding wealth and exploiting others, echoing the fair economic practices encouraged in Leviticus 25.