Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "inherited" in the Bible often pertains to the transmission of property, blessings, or traits from one generation to another. This idea is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and is significant in understanding the covenantal promises, familial relationships, and spiritual legacies within Scripture.Inheritance in the Old Testament In the Old Testament, inheritance is primarily associated with the land and the promises given to the patriarchs. God promised Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan (Genesis 15:18-21). This promise was reiterated to Isaac and Jacob, establishing a divine covenant that underscored the importance of land as a tangible sign of God's blessing and faithfulness. The division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, as detailed in the Book of Joshua, further illustrates the concept of inheritance. Each tribe received a portion of land as their inheritance, which was to be passed down through generations (Joshua 13-21). The land was not merely a possession but a sacred trust, symbolizing the Israelites' relationship with God. Inheritance laws in the Mosaic Law also reflect the importance of maintaining family lineage and property within the tribe. For example, the daughters of Zelophehad successfully petitioned for the right to inherit their father's land, setting a precedent for inheritance rights for women in the absence of male heirs (Numbers 27:1-11). Inheritance in the New Testament In the New Testament, the concept of inheritance takes on a more spiritual dimension. Believers are described as heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, emphasizing the spiritual blessings and eternal life promised to those who are in Christ (Romans 8:17). This inheritance is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for believers (1 Peter 1:4). The Apostle Paul frequently uses the language of inheritance to describe the believer's relationship with God. In Ephesians 1:11, he writes, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." This passage highlights the divine initiative and grace involved in the believer's inheritance. Furthermore, the New Testament emphasizes the idea of spiritual inheritance as a fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham. Galatians 3:29 states, "And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise." This indicates that the inheritance is not limited to ethnic Israel but extends to all who have faith in Christ. Inherited Sin and Righteousness The Bible also addresses the concept of inherited sin, often referred to as original sin. This doctrine is based on the belief that the sin of Adam and Eve has been passed down to all humanity, resulting in a fallen nature (Romans 5:12-19). This inherited sin necessitates redemption, which is provided through Jesus Christ. Conversely, righteousness is also described as an inheritance for believers. Through faith in Christ, believers inherit the righteousness of God, which is imputed to them, allowing them to stand justified before God (2 Corinthians 5:21). Conclusion The biblical concept of inheritance encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions, reflecting God's promises and the believer's identity in Christ. It serves as a reminder of the continuity of God's covenantal faithfulness and the hope of eternal life for those who are in Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Inherit.Greek 3970. patroparadotos -- one who kills one's father ... one's father. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: patroparadotos Phonetic Spelling: (pat-rop-ar-ad'-ot-os) Short Definition: inherited Definition: handed ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3970.htm - 6k 3970b. patroparadotos -- handed down from one's fathers 2816. kleronomeo -- to inherit Strong's Hebrew 5159. nachalah -- possession, property, inheritance... From nachal (in its usual sense); properly, something inherited, ie (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or ... /hebrew/5159.htm - 6k 5157. nachal -- to get or take as a possession Library Inherited Characteristics. Now of These one Fell under a Curse, and the Two Others Inherited ... Guiltless and Without Sin. Parental Duty. Showing How that Passage of the Apostle which the Heretics Pervert ... The Person Sanctified. Sin not Material. Introductory Chapter Debate on the Proposed Invasion of Greece. The Place of the Old Testament in Divine Revelation Thesaurus Inherited (23 Occurrences)...Inherited (23 Occurrences). Hebrews 1:4 having become so much better than the angels, as he has inherited a more excellent name than they have. ... /i/inherited.htm - 13k Patrimony (1 Occurrence) Birthright (10 Occurrences) Sin (782 Occurrences) Wife (437 Occurrences) Brother's (46 Occurrences) Inheritance (263 Occurrences) Inheritances (7 Occurrences) Inherit (98 Occurrences) Herod (45 Occurrences) Resources What is the definition of sin? | GotQuestions.orgDid we all inherit sin from Adam and Eve? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that all have sinned? | GotQuestions.org Inherited: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Inherited (23 Occurrences)Hebrews 1:4 Hebrews 6:12 Hebrews 12:17 1 Peter 1:18 Exodus 23:30 Exodus 34:9 Leviticus 27:28 Numbers 32:18 Numbers 33:54 Numbers 36:7 Deuteronomy 30:5 Joshua 14:1 Joshua 17:6 Joshua 19:9 Psalms 105:44 Psalms 119:111 Proverbs 14:18 Proverbs 19:14 Isaiah 14:2 Jeremiah 16:19 Ezekiel 33:24 Ezekiel 47:14 Zechariah 2:12 Subtopics Related Terms |