Dictionary of Bible Themes: 5657 birthright

5657 birthright

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 5000 Humanity » 5650 Human relationships » 5657 birthright

The right of the firstborn son in ancient Israel to inherit his father's estate. Where the property was divided, the firstborn received a double share.

Birthright was recognised amongst the patriarchs

Genesis 25:5-6,34

Birthright and the law

It was guaranteed under the law

Deuteronomy 21:15-17 See also 1 Chronicles 26:10 some ignored this law

Daughters and others could inherit if there were no sons

Numbers 27:1-11

Only sons of a lawful marriage qualified

Genesis 21:8-13; Judges 11:1-2

Birthright and kingship

Succession was normally to the firstborn

2 Chronicles 21:1-3 See also 2 Chronicles 11:18-22 favouritism could intrude here also

Transfer of the birthright

Through misconduct

1 Chronicles 5:1 See also Genesis 49:3-4

By transaction

Genesis 25:29-34 See also Hebrews 12:16-17

The Christian birthright

Romans 8:17 Jesus Christ is the firstborn over all creation; by the grace of God Christians share in his inheritance. See also Galatians 4:7; Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:2