Leviticus 25:35

"But the field of the pasture lands of their cities may not be sold, for it is their perpetual possession."

Key Reflection

The verse Leviticus 25:35 speaks to the principle of maintaining a certain level of communal welfare and support within ancient Israelite society. By prohibiting the sale of fields in the pasture lands surrounding city boundaries, this command ensures that these areas remain available for the benefit of all community members, reinforcing the idea of perpetual possession as a means to prevent the concentration of land ownership among a few individuals and to maintain a more equitable distribution of resources. This practice aligns with broader biblical themes emphasizing social justice and the responsibility of the community to care for its less fortunate members.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Rather, And if thy brother (an Israelite) becomes poor and falls into decay with thee, thou shalt assist him and let him live with thee like a resident foreigner. He was not to be regarded as an outcast, but was to be treated with the same respect and consideration as a resident foreigner who, like him, could possess no land, but could accumulate property and live in comfort as a free man. SeeLeviticus 16:29note.

More from Leviticus 25

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