Leviticus 25:51 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 25:51 mean?

Leviticus 25:51 explains that if a person who sold himself into servitude still has many years left until the Jubilee year, the price for his freedom should be calculated based on the number of years remaining, using the original amount he was purchased for as a guide. The payment for his redemption is to be fairly adjusted according to how much time is left in his term.

This verse is part of God's instructions to Moses for the Israelites about how to treat fellow Israelites who become indentured servants due to poverty. The context is the Year of Jubilee, a special time every fifty years when debts are forgiven and land or people return to their families. The verse ensures that if someone is redeemed before the Jubilee, the cost is fair and reflects the actual time left, protecting both the servant and the buyer from unfair loss.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 25:51

• רַבִּים (rabbim, "many"): This word means "many" and highlights that the calculation changes if there are a lot of years left, making the redemption price higher.
• שָׁנִים (shaním, "years"): The use of "years" makes it clear that the calculation is based on the number of years remaining until Jubilee, not just a lump sum.
• בְּפִי (befi, "according [to]"): This word means "according to" or "in proportion to," emphasizing that the payment must match the time left, not be arbitrary.
• יָשׁוּב (yashuv, "again"): This verb means "to return" or "to give back," showing that the redemption price is a repayment or restoration, not a new purchase.
• גְּאֻלָּה (ge'ullah, "redemption"): This word means "redemption" or "buying back," and it is a technical term for restoring someone to freedom or their family.
• כֶּסֶף (kesef, "money"): This is the standard word for "money" or "silver," making it clear that the transaction involves real value.
• נִקְנָה (niknah, "bought"): This verb means "to acquire" or "to buy," reminding the reader that the servant was originally purchased for a set price, which is the basis for the calculation.

Why Leviticus 25:51 matters

• Leviticus 25:51 clarifies that redemption is not a fixed fee but is tied to the actual time left in servitude, preventing both exploitation and unfair loss.
• The verse connects to the broader theme of justice and mercy in the Jubilee laws, showing concern for both the dignity of the servant and the rights of the buyer.
• By specifying a fair calculation, the verse helps avoid disputes and sets a standard for honest dealings among the Israelites, reflecting God's care for social fairness.