What is the meaning of Leviticus 25:28? But if he cannot obtain enough to repay him “‘But if he cannot obtain enough to repay him…’” (Leviticus 25:28) • This clause recognizes that even diligent effort may fall short; debt happens. Compare Leviticus 25:25-27 where a relative can step in, and 2 Kings 4:1 where debt threatens a family’s freedom. • Scripture never excuses irresponsibility (Proverbs 22:7; Romans 13:8), yet it shows compassion when hardship overwhelms. The law balances personal responsibility with community mercy. what he sold will remain in possession of the buyer until the Year of Jubilee • If self-redemption fails, the land stays with the purchaser. Leviticus 25:29-30 clarifies that houses in walled cities follow a different rule, underscoring God’s careful distinctions. • Property rights stand; God honors legitimate transactions (Jeremiah 32:9-10). At the same time, He places a time limit so wealth cannot permanently swallow up family inheritances (Numbers 36:4; 1 Kings 21:3 shows the sacredness of ancestral land). In the Jubilee, however, it is to be released “‘…In the Jubilee, however, it is to be released…’” • The Year of Jubilee (every fiftieth year) is declared in Leviticus 25:10: “Proclaim liberty throughout the land.” Lands revert, slaves go free, debts rest. • Jubilee pictures ultimate release in Christ; Isaiah 61:1-2 and Luke 4:18 apply the same language to Messiah’s mission. • God builds periodic reset into society so cycles of poverty do not become chains. so that he may return to his property “‘…so that he may return to his property.’” • Restoration is the goal. God wants families back on the land promised to their forefathers (Leviticus 25:13). • Returning home restores identity, stability, and worship (Ezekiel 46:17; Jeremiah 32:15). • Spiritually, it anticipates our own inheritance kept in heaven (1 Peter 1:4), guaranteed release from every debt of sin. summary Leviticus 25:28 shows God’s just compassion: when a land-seller cannot buy back his inheritance, the purchaser keeps it only until Jubilee. At that set time, the land is released so the family regains its God-given portion. The verse safeguards personal responsibility, affirms property rights, limits the power of wealth, and points to a grander redemption in Christ where every lost inheritance is fully restored. |
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