Leviticus 25

Leviticus 25

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The LordI spokeII to MosesIII on MountIV Sinai,V saying, 

Notes on verse 1

I “Lord” = YHVH. From havah (to be, become) or hayah (to come to pass, become, be). This is the name of the God of Israel, the self-existent and eternal one, the tetragrammaton. This pronunciation has been lost to time so “Lord” is generally used in its place.
II “spoke” = dabar. This is generally to speak, answer, declare, or command. It might mean to arrange and so to speak in a figurative sense as arranging words.
III “Moses” = Mosheh. From mashah (to pull out in a literal or figurative sense, to draw out) OR from Egyptian mes or mesu (child, son i.e. child of…). This is Moses – the one drawn out from the water, which is to say, rescued. If derived from the Egyptian, his name would share a root with Rameses and Thutmose.
IV “Mount” = har. From harar (hill or mountain). This is mountain, hill, hilly region.
V “Sinai” = Sinay. Probably from the same as Sin (Sin, a city meaning “clay” or “bush);{perhaps from asam (to gather, store) OR from seneh (thorn bush) OR related to Aramaic siyn (a god called Sin) OR perhaps Hebrew siyn (related to mud or clay)}. This is Sinai – a place whose name may mean “bush of the Lord” or “muddy.” See https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Sinai.html

“Speak to the IsraelitesVI and say to them: When you enterVII the landVIII

Notes on verse 2a

VI “Israelites” = ben + Yisrael. Literally, “children of Israel.” Ben is from banah (to build or obtain children). This is son, age, child. It is son in a literal or figurative sense. Yisrael is from sarah (to persist, exert oneself, contend, persevere, wrestle, prevail) + el (God or god). This is Israel, meaning God strives or one who strives with God; new name for Jacob and for his offspring. This refers to the people and to the land.
VII “enter” = bo. This is to enter, come in, advance, fulfill, bring offerings, enter to worship, attack. It can also have a sexual connotation.
VIII “land” = erets. Root may mean to be firm. This is earth, ground, field land, or country.

that I am givingIX you, the land shall observeX a SabbathXI for the Lord. SixXII yearsXIII

Notes on verses 2b-3a

IX “giving” = natan. This is to give, put, set, offer. It is to give literally or figuratively.
X “observe” = shabath. This is to rest, stop, repose, cease working. By implication, it is to celebrate.
XI “Sabbath” = Shabbath. Related to “observe” in v2. From shabath (see note X above). This is sabbath, literally meaning rest or intermission.
XII “six” = shesh. This is six. Figuratively, it can be a surplus since it is one more than the number of fingers on the hand.
XIII “years” = shanah. From shana (to change, alter). This is a year, age, old. It can also mean yearly.

you shall sowXIV your field,XV and six years you shall pruneXVI your vineyardXVII and gatherXVIII in their yield,XIX 

Notes on verse 3b

XIV “sow” = zara. This is to sow or scatter seed, conceive or yield. It can also refer to a sower. Figuratively, this can refer to other forms of dissemination.
XV “field” = sadeh. This is literally field, ground, soil, or land. It can be used to mean wild like a wild animal.
XVI “prune” = zamar. 3x in OT. This is to trim or prune – to tend to a vine.
XVII “vineyard” = kerem. This is a vineyard, garden, vines, or a vintage.
XVIII “gather” = asaph. This is to gather, assemble, or bring. It can also mean to take away, destroy, or remove.
XIX “yield” = tebuah. Related to “enter” in v2. From bo (see note VII above). This is produce, increase or gain – can be literal or figurative.

but in the seventhXX year there shall beXXI a Sabbath of complete restXXII for the land, a Sabbath for the Lord: you shall not sow your field or prune your vineyard. You shall not reapXXIII the aftergrowthXXIV

Notes on verses 4-5a

XX “seventh” = shebii. From sheba (seven – the number of perfection/sacred fullness). This is seventh.
XXI “be” = hayah. Related to “Lord” in v1. See note I above.
XXII “complete rest” = shabbaton. Related to “observe” and “Sabbath” in v2. 11x in OT. From shabath (see note X above). This is a holiday, rest, a day to take a sabbath from work.
XXIII “read” = qatsar. Related to “harvest” in v5. See note XXV below.
XXIV “aftergrowth” = saphiyach. 5x in OT. From saphach (to join, assign, gather, mix, scrape, get a scab). This is an outpouring. It is something that grows untended. It can also be a freshet.

of your harvestXXV or gatherXXVI the grapesXXVII of your unpruned vine:XXVIII it shall be a year of complete rest for the land. 

Notes on verse 5b

XXV “harvest” = qatsiyr. From qatsar (to cut down, be short, reap, curtail; used especially for harvesting grass or grain; figuratively, to be discouraged or grieve). This is branch, harvest, one who harvests. Properly, this means severed, reaped. It is the crop being harvested, the time of harvest or the one who harvests. It can also be a bough.
XXVI “gather” = batsar. This is to enclose, wall up, or make something inaccessible, impenetrable, isolated. It can also mean to fortify, something mighty. It can also mean to gather grapes.
XXVII “grapes” = enab. 19x in OT. Root may mean to bear fruit. This is a grape, raisin, or wine. It can be used for the literal crop or as a metaphor for God’s relationship with Israel.
XXVIII “unpruned vine” = nazir. 16x in OT. From nazar (to dedicate, set apart, fast, keep self from impurity, refrain from worship; to consecrate for a holy purpose). This is a devoted one, i.e. a Nazarite. It can also refer to a prince or a vine that has not been trimmed.

You may eatXXIX what the land yieldsXXX during its Sabbath—you, your maleXXXI and female slaves,XXXII

Notes on verse 6a

XXIX “eat” = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XXI above.
XXX “what…yields” = oklah. 18x in OT. From okel (food, prey, meat, eating); from akal (to eat, devour, burn up, or otherwise consume; eating in a literal or figurative sense). This is food, eating, fuel, meat, consume.
XXXI “male” = ebed. From abad (to work, serve, compel; any kind of work; used causatively, can mean to enslave or keep in bondage). This is a servant, slave, or bondservant.
XXXII “female slaves” = amah. This is female servant or slave, handmaid.

your hiredXXXIII and your bound laborersXXXIV who liveXXXV with you, 

Notes on verse 6b

XXXIII “hired” = sakir. 17x in OT. From sakar (to hire, earn). This is someone who earns a wage, a laborer. It could be one a day by day basis or for a longer term.
XXXIV “bound laborers” = toshab. 14x in OT. From yashab (to sit and so to remain and so to dwell; sitting for any reason – as a judge, in order to ambush, or just sitting quietly; can mean settling or marrying; continue, endure, or establish). This is sojourner, settler, tenant. Someone who lives in a foreign land – not native born.
XXXV “live” = gur. Properly, this is the act of turning off the road for any reason. So, it means sojourning, becoming a guest. It can mean being fearful since one is outside of home territory. It can also mean dwelling, living, or inhabiting if one has turned off the root to encamp for a longer duration. This word is where the Hebrew “ger” comes from, which is the word translated “stranger” or “resident alien.”

for your livestockXXXVI also, and for the wild animalsXXXVII in your land allXXXVIII its yieldXXXIX shall be for food.XL

Notes on verse 7

XXXVI “livestock” = behemah. This is animal or cattle. It is often used of large quadrupeds.
XXXVII “wild animals” = chay. From chayah (to live or keep alive literally or figuratively). This is alive, living, lifetime. It can also be used to describe someone’s age. It can refer to animals, plants, water, or a company or congregation of people. It is life in a very broad sense.
XXXVIII “all” = kol. From kalal (to complete). This is all or every.
XXXIX “yield” = tebuah. Same as “yield” in v3. See note XIX above.
XL “food” = akal. Related to “what…yields” in v6. See note XXX above.

“You shall count offXLI sevenXLII weeksXLIII of years, seven timesXLIV seven years, so that the periodXLV of seven weeks of years

Notes on verse 8a

XLI “count off” = saphar. From sepher (writing, document, book, evidence). This is properly to tally or record something. It can be enumerate, recount, number, celebrate, or declare.
XLII “seven” = sheba. Related to “seventh” in v4. See note XX above.
XLIII “weeks” = shabbath. Same as “Sabbath” in v2. See note XI above.
XLIV “times” = paam. From paam (to move, trouble; to tap in a regular rhythm; to agitate). This is a beat, stroke, footstep, or occurrence.
XLV “period” = yom. Root may mean being hot. This is the day in a literal or figurative sense. It can also mean birth, age, daylight, continually or other references to time.

givesXLVI forty-nineXLVII years. Then you shall have the trumpetXLVIII soundedXLIX loud;L

Notes on verses 8b-9a

XLVI “gives” = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XXI above.
XLVII “forty-nine” = tesha + arbaim. Tesha is perhaps from sha’ah (to gaze at, gaze around, regard – to look to, especially for help; to consider or be compassionate; to look at in amazement or while confounded). This is nine, perhaps as looking to the next number associated with fullness (10). Arbaim is from the same as arba (four); from raba (to make square or be four-sided); perhaps from raba (to lie down flat; can be to lie for mating). This is forty.
XLVIII “trumpet” = shophar. From shaphar (being beautiful or lovely). This is a ram’s horn, trumpet, or cornet. A shofar is still blown at Jewish festivals such as Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish new year celebration).
XLIX “sounded” = abar. This is to pass over or cross over. It is used for transitions, whether literal or figurative. It can also mean to escape, alienate, or fail. This is the root verb from which “Hebrew” is drawn.
L “loud” = teruah. From rua (to break or destroy something so figuratively, an ear splitting sound such as a call of alarm or a joyful sound). This is an alarm, trumpet sound, battle cry, rejoicing, joyful shout, or jubilee.

on the tenthLI day of the seventh monthLII—on the DayLIII of AtonementLIV—you shall have the trumpet sounded throughout all your land. 

Notes on verse 9b

LI “tenth” = asor. 16x in OT. From the same as eser (teen or -teen). This is ten or tenth. Here, a ten-stringed instrument like the lute.
LII “month” = chodesh. From chadash (to renew, repair). This refers to a new moon. It can also mean monthly.
LIII “Day” = yom. Same as “period” in v8. See note XLV above.
LIV “Atonement” = kippur. 6x in OT– all in the Torah. From the same as kopher (a cover, ransom price, amount of money, bribe); from kaphar (to appease, cover, pacify, cancel). This is atonement and expiation.

10 And you shall hallowLV the fiftiethLVI year, and you shall proclaimLVII libertyLVIII throughout the land to all its inhabitants.LIX

Notes on verse 10a

LV “hallow” = qadash. From qodesh (set apart and so sacred; God is different from us and so God is holy/set apart; things we dedicate to God’s service are set apart for God and so they, too, are holy). This is set apart, consecrated, hallowed, sanctified. This is something or someone that is set apart for a holy purpose or use – ceremonially or morally clean.
LVI “fiftieth” = chamishshim. From chamesh (five, fifth). This is fifty.
LVII “proclaim” = qara. This is to call or call out – to call someone by name. Also used more broadly for calling forth.
LVIII “liberty” = deror. 8x in OT. This is flowing quickly – hence flowing free, release, and liberty. It can also mean pure or clear.
LIX “inhabitants” = yashab. Related to “bound laborers” in v6. See note XXXIV above.

It shall be a JubileeLX for you: you shall return,LXI every oneLXII of you, to your propertyLXIII and every one of youLXIV to your family.LXV 

Notes on verse 10b

LX “Jubilee” = yobel. From yabal (to bring, carry, flow, lead forth). This is a horn – whether a ram’s horn or a silver trumpet. It can also refer to the jubilee or the beginning of a festival.
LXI “return” = shub. To turn back, return, turn away – literally or figuratively. Doesn’t necessarily imply going back to where you started from. This is also the root verb for the Hebrew word for repentance “teshubah.”
LXII “every one” = ish. Perhaps from enosh (human, humankind, mortal); from anash (to be weak, sick, or frail). This is man, husband, another, or humankind.
LXIII “property” = achuzzah. From achaz (to grasp, catch, seize, take and hold in possession). This is a possession, particularly used of land.
LXIV {untranslated} = shub. Same as “return” in v10. See note LXI above.
LXV “family” = mishpachah. From the same as shiphcah (maid, maidservant); root means to spread out. This is one’s circle of relatives – clan, family, kindred.

11 That fiftieth year shall be a Jubilee for you: you shall not sow or reap the aftergrowth or harvestLXVI the unpruned vines. 12 For it is a Jubilee; it shall be holyLXVII to you: you shall eatLXVIII only what the field itself produces.LXIX

13 “In this year of Jubilee you shall return, every one of you, to your property. 14 When you makeLXX a saleLXXI to your neighborLXXII

Notes on verses 11-14a

LXVI “harvest” = batsar. Same as “gather” in v5. See note XXVI above.
LXVII “holy” = qodesh. Related to “hallow” in v10. See note LV above.
LXVIII “eat” = akal. Same as “food” in v7. See note XL above.
LXIX “what…produces” = tebuah. Same as “yield” in v3. See note XIX above.
LXX “make” = makar. This is to sell – could be commerce/trade, a daughter to be married, someone into slavery. Figuratively, it can mean to surrender.
LXXI “sale” = mimkar. Related to “make” in v14. 10x in OT. From makar (see note LXX above). This is a sale or merchandise.
LXXII “neighbor” = amith. 12x in OT– 11x in Leviticus & 1x in Zechariah. Root may mean to associate. This is a companion, associate, relation, or neighbor.

or buyLXXIII fromLXXIV your neighbor, you shall not cheatLXXV oneLXXVI another.LXXVII 

Notes on verse 14b

LXXIII “buy” = qanah. This is to acquire, create, purchase, own. Its root may mean to smith or to produce.
LXXIV {untranslated} = yad. This is hand, ability, power. Hand in a literal sense, but also what one can do or the means by which one does it.
LXXV “cheat” = yanah. 19x in OT. This is to do wrong, oppress, destroy, mistreat, or suppress. It can imply violence or anger.
LXXVI “one” = ish. Same as “every one” in v10. See note LXII above.
LXXVII “another” = ach. This is brother, kindred, another, other, like. It is literally brother, but it can also be someone who is similar, resembling, or related to.

15 When you buy from your neighbor, you shall pay only for the numberLXXVIII of years untilLXXIX the Jubilee; the seller shall chargeLXXX you only for the remainingLXXXI cropLXXXII years. 

Notes on verse 15

LXXVIII “number” = mispar. Related to “count off” in v8.  From the same as sepher (see note XLI above). This is a number, whether definite or symbolic – could be innumerable, few, abundance. It can also be a tally or account – or a narration.
LXXIX “until” = achar. From achar (to remain behind, linger, continue, be behind, or delay; can also imply procrastination). This is after or the last part, following.
LXXX “seller shall charge” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.
LXXXI “remaining” = mispar. Same as “number” in v15. See note LXXVIII above.
LXXXII “crop” = tebuah. Same as “yield” in v3. See note XIX above.

16 If the yearsLXXXIII are more,LXXXIV you shall increaseLXXXV the price,LXXXVI

Notes on verse 16a

LXXXIII {untranslated} = peh. This is mouth in a literal or figurative sense. So, more literally, it can be beak or jaws. More figuratively, it refers to speech, commands, or promises.
LXXXIV “more” = rob. From rabab (to be or become much or many, multiply). This is any kind of abundance.
LXXXV “increase” = rabah. This is increasing in any aspect whether quantity, authority, size, quality, greatness, etc.
LXXXVI “price” = miqnah. Related to “buy” in v14. 15x in OT. From qanah (see note LXXIII above). This is buying so it could be the process of buying something, the thing bought (land or object or livestock), or the price of the thing.

and if the yearsLXXXVII are fewer,LXXXVIII you shall diminishLXXXIX the price, for it is a certain number of harvestsXC that are being soldXCI to you. 

Notes on verse 16b

LXXXVII {untranslated} = peh. Same as {untranslated} in v16. See note LXXXIII above.
LXXXVIII “are fewer” = maat. This is diminished, decreased, reduced, insignificant. It is a broad sense of being small or becoming small. Figuratively, this can mean ineffective.
LXXXIX “diminish” = maat. Same as “are fewer” in v16. See note LXXXVIII above.
XC “harvests” = tebuah. Same as “yield” in v3. See note XIX above.
XCI “sold” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.

17 You shall not cheat one another,XCII but you shall fearXCIII your God,XCIV for I am the Lord your God.

18 “You shall observeXCV my statutesXCVI

Notes on verses 17-18a

XCII “another” = amith. Same as “neighbor” in v14. See note LXXII above.
XCIII “fear” = yare. This is to fear, be afraid, dreadful. It can also refer to fearful reverence – to fear in a moral sense is to say to revere, respect.
XCIV “God” = Elohim. Related to “Israelites” in v2. See note VI above.
XCV “observe” = asah. This is to make, do, act, appoint, become in many senses.
XCVI “statutes” = chuqqah. From choq (statute, boundary, condition, custom, limit, ordinance; something that is prescribed or something that is owed); from chaqaq (to inscribe, carve, or decree; a lawmaker; literally, this is engraving, but it implies enacting a law because laws were carved into stone or metal). This is something prescribed such as a statue, custom, or ordinance.

and faithfully keepXCVII my ordinances,XCVIII so that you may liveXCIX on the land securely.C 

Notes on verse 18b

XCVII “faithfully keep” = shamar + asah. Shamar is to keep, watch, or preserve. It means to guard something or to protect it as a thorny hedge protects something. Asah is the same as “observe” in v18. See note XCV above.
XCVIII “ordinances” = mishpat. From shaphat (to judge, defend, pronounce judgment, condemn, govern). This is a verdict or formal sentence whether from humans or from God. It includes the act of judging as well as the place that judging takes place, the suit itself, and the penalty. Abstractly, this is justice, which includes the rights of the participants.
XCIX “live” = yashab. Same as “inhabitants” in v10. See note LIX above.
C “securely” = betach. From batach (to hide for refuge, be secure or sure; figuratively, it refers to trust, being confident, or hoping). This is a place of refuge. So, abstractly, it can be confidence, security, hope, trust, or assurance.

19 The land will yieldCI its fruit,CII and you will eatCIII your fillCIV and liveCV on it securely. 

Notes on verse 19

CI “yield” = natan. Same as ‘giving” in v2. See note IX above.
CII “fruit” = peri. From parah (to bear fruit, grow, be fruitful, increase; bearing fruit in a literal or figurative sense). This is fruit or reward.
CIII “eat” = akal. Same as “food” in v7. See note XL above.
CIV “fill” = soba. 8x in OT. From saba (to be satisfied or full in a literal or figurative sense; to have plenty of). This is abundance, fullness, satisfaction. Properly, it is being sated – having enough food. Figuratively, it is fullness of joy.
CV “live” = yashab. Same as “inhabitants” in v10. See note LIX above.

20 Should you ask, ‘What shall we eatCVI in the seventh year,CVII if we may not sow or gather inCVIII our crop?’ 21 I will orderCIX my blessingCX for you in the sixthCXI year,

Notes on verses 20-21a

CVI “eat” = akal. Same as “food” in v7. See note XL above.
CVII {untranslated} = hen. This is a remark of surprise or excitement: lo! Behold! It can also mean if or though.
CVIII “gather in” = asaph. Same as “gather” in v3. See note XVIII above.
CIX “order” = tsavah. This is to charge, command, order, appoint, or enjoin. This is the root that the Hebrew word for “commandment” comes from (mitsvah).
CX “blessing” = barakah. From barak (to kneel, bless; blessing God as part of worship and adoration; blessing humans to help them; can be used as a euphemism to say curse God). This is blessing, which implies prosperity or peace.
CXI “sixth” = shishim. Related to “six” in v3. From the same as shesh (see note XII above). This is sixth.

so that it will yieldCXII a crop for threeCXIII years. 22 When you sow in the eighthCXIV year, you will be eatingCXV from the oldCXVI crop;

Notes on verses 21b-22a

CXII “yield” = asah. Same as “observe” in v18. See note XCV above.
CXIII “three” = shalosh. This is three, fork, three times.
CXIV “eighth” = shemini. From the same as shemoneh (eight; can be figurative for surplus); perhaps from shamen (to shine, which implies being oily, growing fat); from shaman (to grow fat, shine, be oily). This is eighth or sheminith.
CXV “eating” = akal. Same as “food” in v7. See note XL above.
CXVI “old” = yashan. 6x in OT. From yashen (to be languid or go slack; it can mean to sleep, become old or stale, or die). This is old or something old.

until the ninthCXVII year, when its produceCXVIII comes in,CXIX you shall eatCXX the old. 

Notes on verse 22b

CXVII “ninth” = teshii. Related to “nine” in v8. 18x in OT. From the same as tesha (see note XLVII above). This is ninth.
CXVIII “produce” = tebuah. Same as “yield” in v3. See note XIX above.
CXIX “comes in” = bo. Same as “enter” in v2. See note VII above.
CXX “eat” = akal. Same as “food” in v7. See note XL above.

23 The land shall not be sold in perpetuity,CXXI for the land is mine; with me you are but aliensCXXII and tenants.CXXIII 24 Throughout the land that you hold,CXXIV you shall provide for the redemptionCXXV of the land.

Notes on verses 23-24

CXXI “in perpetuity” = tsemithuth. 2x in OT – both in Leviticus 25. From tsamath (to destroy, cut off, silence, or vanish; to put an end to in a literal or figurative sense). This is completion, permanently, destruction.
CXXII “aliens” = ger. Related to “live” in v6. From gur (see note XXXV above). This is sojourner, guest, stranger, foreigner.
CXXIII “tenants” = toshab. Same as “bound laborers” in v6. See note XXXIV above.
CXXIV “hold” = achuzzah. Same as “property” in v10. See note LXIII above.
CXXV “redemption” = geullah. 14x in OT. From gaal (to redeem someone or something according to kinship laws; acting on a relative’s behalf to buy back their property, to marry one’s brother’s widow; to redeem, acts as kinsman; as a noun, deliverer or avenger). This refers to kin, whether the relationship itself, the responsibilities and rights related to that relationship, or the redemption itself.

25 “If anyone of your kinCXXVI falls into difficultyCXXVII and sells a piece of property, then the next of kinCXXVIII shall come and redeemCXXIX what the relativeCXXX has sold. 

Notes on verse 25

CXXVI “kin” = ach. Same as “another” in v14. See note LXXVII above.
CXXVII “falls into difficulty” = muk. 5x in OT – all in Leviticus 25 & 27. The is to become thin, which implies growing poor.
CXXVIII “next of kin” = gaal + qarob. Gaal is related to “redemption” in v24. See note CXXV above. Qarob is from qarab (to come near, offer, make ready). This is near whether nearby, related, near in time, or allied.
CXXIX “redeem” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.
CXXX “relative” = ach. Same as “another” in v14. See note LXXVII above.

26 If the personCXXXI hasCXXXII no one to redeemCXXXIII it but then prospersCXXXIV and findsCXXXV

Notes on verse 26a

CXXXI “person” = ish. Same as “every one” in v10. See note LXII above.
CXXXII “has” = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XXI above.
CXXXIII “one to redeem” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.
CXXXIV “prospers” = nasag + yad. Nasag is to reach in a literal or figurative sense. It is to overtake, catch, or be able to. Yad is the same as {untranslated} in v14. See note LXXIV above.
CXXXV “finds” = matsa. This is to find, catch or acquire. It can also mean to come forth or appear. Figuratively, this can mean to meet or be together with.

sufficient meansCXXXVI to do so,CXXXVII 27 the years since its sale shall be computedCXXXVIII and the differenceCXXXIX refundedCXL to the person to whom it was sold, and the property shall be returned. 

Notes on verses 26b-27

CXXXVI “sufficient means” = day. This is enough, plenty, overflow, or ability.
CXXXVII “do so” = geullah. Same as “redemption” in v24. See note CXXV above.
CXXXVIII “computed” = chashab. This is properly to braid or interpenetrate. Literally it is to create or to wear. Figuratively, it can mean plotting – generally in a negative sense. More broadly, this can also mean think, consider, or make account of.
CXXXIX “difference” = adaph. 9x in OT. This is to have excess, be left over, remain.
CXL “refunded” = shub. Same as “return” in v10. See note LXI above.

28 But if there areCXLI not sufficient meansCXLII to recoverCXLIII it, what was soldCXLIV shall remainCXLV with the purchaserCXLVI until the year of Jubilee; in the Jubilee it shall be released,CXLVII and the property shall be returned.

Notes on verse 28

CXLI “are” = matsa. Same as “finds” in v26. See note CXXXV above.
CXLII “means” = yad. Same as {untranslated} in v14. See note LXXIV above.
CXLIII “recover” = shub. Same as “return” in v10. See note LXI above.
CXLIV “what was sold” = mimkar. Same as “sale” in v14. See note LXXI above.
CXLV “remain” = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XXI above.
CXLVI “purchaser” = yad + qanah. Literally, “in the hand of the one who bought.” Yad is the same as {untranslated} in v14. See note LXXIV above. Qanah is the same as “buy” in v14. See note LXXIII above.
CXLVII “released” = yatsa. This is to go or come out, bring forth, appear. It is to go out in a literal or figurative sense.

29 “If anyoneCXLVIII sells a dwellingCXLIX houseCL in a walledCLI city,CLII

Notes on verse 29a

CXLVIII “anyone” = ish. Same as “every one” in v10. See note LXII above.
CXLIX “dwelling” = moshab. Related to “bound laborers” in v6 & “inhabitants” in v10. From yashab (see note XXXIV above). This is dwelling, seat, assembly, settlement, population.
CL “house” = bayit. Related to “Israelites” in v2. Probably from banah (see note VI above). This is house, court, family, palace, temple.
CLI “walled” = chomah. From the same as cham (father-in-law – one’s husband’s father; perhaps from a root meaning to join). This is a wall – a wall as used for protection.
CLII “city” = iyr. From uwr (to awaken or wake oneself up). This can mean excitement in the sense of wakefulness or city. Properly, this is a place that is guarded. Guards kept schedules according to watches. This sense of the word would include cities as well as encampments or posts that were guarded.

it may be redeemedCLIII until a year has elapsedCLIV since its sale; the right of redemptionCLV shall be one year. 30 If it is not redeemedCLVI before a fullCLVII year has elapsed,CLVIII

Notes on verses 29b-30a

CLIII “redeemed” = geullah. Same as “redemption” in v24. See note CXXV above.
CLIV “a…has elapsed” = tamam. This is to finish or accomplish. It is to make perfect, demonstrate that you are upright, consume or cease. It is to complete in a literal or figurative sense, positive or negative.
CLV “right of redemption” = geullah. Same as “redemption” in v24. See note CXXV above.
CLVI “redeemed” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.
CLVII “full” = tamim. Related to “a…has elapsed” in v29. From tamam (see note CLIV above). This is entire in a literal or figurative sense. So, it could be complete, full, intact, or without defect. Alternately, it could refer to being sound, having integrity, being sincere or perfect.
CLVIII “elapsed” = male. This is fill, satisfy, replenish, accomplish, fulfill, confirm, or consecrate. It is fill in a literal or figurative sense.

a house that is in a walled city shall passCLIX in perpetuity to the purchaser, throughout the generations;CLX it shall not be released in the Jubilee. 31 But houses in villagesCLXI that have no walls aroundCLXII them

Notes on verses 30b-31a

CLIX “pass” = qum. To arise, stand, accomplish, establish, abide. This is rising as in rising against, getting up after being sick or asleep, arising from one state to another, becoming powerful, or rising for action. It can also be standing in a figurative sense.
CLX “generations” = dor. From dur (to move in a circle, which implies living somewhere or remaining there; it can also be the sense of piling or heaping up). This is a revolution of time, which is to say, an age or generation. It can also be a dwelling or one’s posterity.
CLXI “villages” = chatser. From chatsar (to blow a trumpet, trumpeter, to surround); from chatsotsrah (trumpet). This is an enclosure or court – a yard that is fenced in. It could also be a village or hamlet that is walled in.
CLXII “around” = sabib. From sabab (turning around, going around; to surround, cast, walk, fetch; to revolve or border in a literal or figurative sense). This is a circuit or a circle. It could refer to an environment, one’s neighbors, or a circular path round about.

shall be classedCLXIII as openCLXIV country;CLXV they may be redeemed,CLXVI and they shall be released in the Jubilee. 32 As for the cities of the Levites,CLXVII the Levites shall foreverCLXVIII have the right of redemption of the houses in the cities belongingCLXIX to them. 

Notes on verses 31b-32

CLXIII “classed” = chashab. Same as “computed” in v27. See note CXXXVIII above.
CLXIV “open” = sadeh. Same as “field” in v3. See note XV above.
CLXV “country” = erets. Same as “land” in v2. See note VIII above.
CLXVI “redeemed” = geullah. Same as “redemption” in v24. See note CXXV above.
CLXVII “Levites” = Leviyyi. From Levi (Levi; perhaps meaning “attached”; Jacob’s son, his tribe, and descendants); perhaps from lavah (to join, twine, unite, remain, borrow, lend). This is Levite or levitical.
CLXVIII “forever” = olam. This is a long scope of time whether in the past (antiquity, ancient time) or in the future (eternal, everlasting).
CLXIX “belonging” = achuzzah. Same as “property” in v10. See note LXIII above.

33 Whatever property of the Levites that may be redeemed,CLXX that is, houses soldCLXXI in a city belonging to them, shall be released in the Jubilee, for the houses in the cities of the Levites are their possessionCLXXII amongCLXXIII the Israelites. 34 But the pasturelandsCLXXIV around their cities may not be sold,CLXXV for that is their possession for all time.CLXXVI

Notes on verses 33-34

CLXX “redeemed” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.
CLXXI “sold” = mimkar. Same as “sale” in v14. See note LXXI above.
CLXXII “possession” = achuzzah. Same as “property” in v10. See note LXIII above.
CLXXIII “among” = tavek. This is among, middle, in the midst, the center. Perhaps, properly, to sever.
CLXXIV “pasturelands” = sadeh + migrash. Sadeh is from the same as “field” in v3. See note XV above. Migrash is from garash (to drive out or expel; to divorce or of an expatriate). This is open country outside of a city, often used for pasturing flocks. It can also be the space around a building.
CLXXV “sold” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.
CLXXVI “all time” = olam. Same as “forever” in v32. See note CLXVIII above.

35 “If any of your kin fall into difficulty and become dependentCLXXVII on you, you shall supportCLXXVIII them; they shall liveCLXXIX with you as though residentCLXXX aliens. 36 Do not takeCLXXXI interest in advanceCLXXXII

Notes on verses 35-36a

CLXXVII “become dependent” = mot + yad.  Mot is to shake, slip, falter, stagger, move, fall, give way, waver, be carried. Yad is the same as {untranslated} in v14. See note LXXIV above.
CLXXVIII “support” = chazaq. This is to strengthen, seize, be courageous, repair, bind, heal, conquer, harden.
CLXXIX “live” = chayah. Related to “wild animals” inn v7. See note XXXVII above.
CLXXX “resident” = toshab. Same as “bound laborers” in v6. See note XXXIV above.
CLXXXI “take” = laqach. This is to take, accept, carry away, receive. It can also have the sense of take a wife or take in marriage.
CLXXXII “interest in advance” = neshek. 12x in OT. From nashak (bite or sting as from a snake; figuratively, lending with interest). This is interest or usury.

or otherwise make a profitCLXXXIII from them, but fear your God; let them liveCLXXXIV with you. 37 You shall not lendCLXXXV them your moneyCLXXXVI at interest taken in advance or provide them foodCLXXXVII at a profit.CLXXXVIII 

Notes on verses 36b-37

CLXXXIII “profit” = tarbuth. Related to “increase” in v16. 2x in OT. From rabah (see note LXXXV above). This is increase – it could be profit or offspring.
CLXXXIV “live” = chayah. Same as “live” in v35. See note CLXXIX above.
CLXXXV “lend” = natan. Same as “giving” in v2. See note IX above.
CLXXXVI “money” = keseph. From kasaph (to long for, be greedy; to become pale). This is silver or money.
CLXXXVII “food” = okel. Related to “what…yields” in v6 & “food” in v7. From akal (see note XXX above). This is food, supply of provisions, the act of eating, or the time when one eats.
CLXXXVIII “profit” = marbith. Related to “increase” in v16 & “profit” in v36. 5x in OT. From rabah (see note LXXXV above). This is increase, profit, majority, greatness, multitude, offspring.

38 I am the Lord your God who broughtCLXXXIX you out of the land of Egypt,CXC to giveCXCI you the land of Canaan,CXCII to be your God.

Notes on verse 38

CLXXXIX “brought” = yatsa. Same as “released” in v28. See note CXLVII above.
CXC “Egypt” = Mitsrayim. Perhaps from matsor (besieged or fortified place, bulwark, entrenchment; something hemmed in; a siege or distress or fastness); from tsur (to confine, besiege, to cramp). This is Egypt.
CXCI “give” = natan. Same as ‘giving” in v2. See note IX above.
CXCII “Canaan” = Kna’an. From kana’ (to be humble, subdue; properly, bend the knee). This is Canaan, his descendants, and the land where they settled. This could mean lowlands, describing their land or subjugated in reference to being conquered by Egypt. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canaan

39 “If any who are dependentCXCIII on you become so impoverishedCXCIV that they sellCXCV themselves to you, you shall not makeCXCVI them serveCXCVII as slaves.CXCVIII 

Notes on verse 39

CXCIII “who are dependent” = ach. Same as “another” in v14. See note LXXVII above.
CXCIV “become so impoverished” = muk. Same as “falls into difficulty” in v25. See note CXXVII above.
CXCV “sell” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.
CXCVI “make” = abad. Related to “male” in v6. See note XXXI above.
CXCVII “serve” = abodah. Related to “male” in v6 & “make” in v39. From abad (see note XXXI above). This is labor, service, bondage, job, servitude, worker. It can refer to any kind of work.
CXCVIII “slaves” = ebed. Same as “male” in v6. See note XXXI above.

40 They shall remainCXCIX with you as hired or bound laborers. They shall serveCC with you until the year of the Jubilee. 41 Then they and their childrenCCI with them shall go outCCII from your authority; they shall go backCCIII to their own family and return to their ancestralCCIV property. 

Notes on verses 40-41

CXCIX “remain” = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XXI above.
CC “serve” = abad. Same as “make” in v39. See note CXCVI above.
CCI “children” = ben. Same as “Israelites” in v2. See note VI above.
CCII “go out” = yatsa. Same as “released” in v28. See note CXLVII above.
CCIII “go back” = shub. Same as “return” in v10. See note LXI above.
CCIV “ancestral” = ab. This is father, chief, or ancestor. It is father in a literal or figurative sense.

42 For they are my servantsCCV whom I brought out of the land of Egypt; they shall not be soldCCVI as slaves are sold.CCVII 43 You shall not ruleCCVIII over them with harshnessCCIX but shall fear your God. 

Notes on verses 42-43

CCV “servants” = ebed. Same as “male” in v6. See note XXXI above.
CCVI “sold” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.
CCVII “as…sold” = mimkereth. Related to “make” and “sale” in v14. 1x in OT. From mimkar (see note LXXI above). This is a sale.
CCVIII “rule” = radah. This is to step down, rule, dominate, have victory over, crumble.
CCIX “harshness” = perek. 6x in OT. Root may mean to fracture or break apart, emphasizing the severity or the break. This is harshness, severity, cruelty. Can also be used to say rigorously.

44 As for the male and female slaves whom you may have, it is from the nationsCCX around you that you may acquireCCXI male and female slaves. 45 You may also acquire them from among theCCXII aliensCCXIII residingCCXIV with you and from their families who are with you who have been bornCCXV in your land; they may be your property. 

Notes on verses 44-45

CCX “nations” = goy. From the same root as gevah (the back, person, or body); related to gev (among); related to gaah (to rise up). This is nation or people. Often used to refer to Gentiles or foreign nations. It can also be used figuratively for a group of animals. This is where the Yiddish “goy” comes from.
CCXI “acquire” = qanah. Same as “buy” in v14. See note LXXIII above.
CCXII {untranslated} = ben. Same as “Israelites” in v2. See note VI above.
CCXIII “aliens” = gur. Same as “live” in v6. See note XXXV above.
CCXIV “residing” = toshab. Same as “bound laborers” in v6. See note XXXIV above.
CCXV “born” = yalad. This is to bear or bring forth. It can mean to act as midwife or to show one’s lineage. This is often used for birth or begetting.

46 You may keep them as a possessionCCXVI for your children afterCCXVII you, for them to inheritCCXVIII as property.CCXIX

Notes on verse 46a

CCXVI “keep…as a possession” = nachal. From nachalah (properly something that was inherited; can mean occupancy generally or, more particularly, an heirloom or an estate; can be an inheritance, gift, possession, or portion). This is to gain as a possession, divide for inheritance. Also, to occupy for any reason.
CCXVII “after” = achar. Same as “until” in v15. See note LXXIX above.
CCXVIII “inherit” = yarash. This is inheriting or dispossessing. It refers to occupying or colonizing – taking territory by driving out the previous inhabitants and living there instead of them. By implication, it can mean to seize or rob, to expel, ruin, or impoverish.
CCXIX {untranslated} = olam. Same as “forever” in v32. See note CLXVIII above.

These you may treat as slaves,CCXX but as for your fellowCCXXI Israelites, no one shall rule over the otherCCXXII with harshness.

47 “If resident aliensCCXXIII among you prosper, and if any of your kin fall into difficulty with one of them and sellCCXXIV themselves to an alienCCXXV

Notes on verses 46b-47a

CCXX “treat as slaves” = abad. Same as “make” in v39. See note CXCVI above.
CCXXI “fellow” = ach. Same as “another” in v14. See note LXXVII above.
CCXXII “other” = ach. Same as “another” in v14. See note LXXVII above.
CCXXIII “aliens” = ger. Same as “aliens” in v23. See note CXXII above.
CCXXIV “sell” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.
CCXXV “alien” = ger + toshab. Ger is the same as “aliens” in v23. See note CXXII above. Toshab is the same as “bound laborers” in v6. See note XXXIV above.

or to a branchCCXXVI of the alien’sCCXXVII family, 48 even after they have soldCCXXVIII themselves they shall have the right of redemption; oneCCXXIX of their brothersCCXXX may redeemCCXXXI them, 

Notes on verses 47b-48

CCXXVI “branch” = eqer. 1x in OT. Perhaps from aqar (to uproot, pluck out, dig out by the roots, to hamstring; figuratively, to exterminate). This is an offshoot, so it can figuratively refer to a descendant or a naturalized citizen.
CCXXVII “alien’s” = ger. Same as “aliens” in v23. See note CXXII above.
CCXXVIII “sold” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.
CCXXIX “one” = echad. Perhaps from achad (to unify, continue on a path; figuratively, to gather one’s thoughts). This is the number one, first, united. It can also be alone, altogether, a certain, a few.
CCXXX “brothers” = ach. Same as “another” in v14. See note LXXVII above.
CCXXXI “redeem” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.

49 or their uncleCCXXXII or their uncle’s sonCCXXXIII may redeemCCXXXIV them, or anyone of their family who is of their own fleshCCXXXV

Notes on verse 49a

CCXXXII “uncle” = dod. This may come from a word that means to boil. It is love or lover. It can also refer to one who is beloved, like an uncle, or a love-token.
CCXXXIII “son” = ben. Same as “Israelites” in v2. See note VI above.
CCXXXIV “redeem” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.
CCXXXV “anyone of their family who is their own flesh” = sheer + basar + mishpachah. Sheer is 16x in OT. Perhaps from sha’ar (properly, swelling up i.e. being left over; a remnant, remaining, being redundant). This is flesh, body, meat, kin, self. Basar is from basar (being a messenger, publish, carry preach; properly, this is being fresh, rosy or cheerful as one bearing news). This is flesh, the body, fat, skin, self, nakedness, humankind, or kin. It can also refer to private parts. Mishpachah is the same as “family” in v10. See note LXV above.

may redeemCCXXXVI them, or if they prosper they may redeemCCXXXVII themselves. 50 They shall compute with the purchaser the total from the year when they soldCCXXXVIII themselves to the alien until the Jubilee year; the priceCCXXXIX of the saleCCXL shall be appliedCCXLI to the number of years: the timeCCXLII they were with the owner shall be rated as the time of a hired laborer. 

Notes on verses 49b-50

CCXXXVI “redeem” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.
CCXXXVII “redeem” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.
CCXXXVIII “sold” = makar. Same as “make” in v14. See note LXX above.
CCXXXIX “price” = keseph. Same as “money” in v37. See note CLXXXVI above.
CCXL “sale” = mimkar. Same as “sale” in v14. See note LXXI above.
CCXLI “be applied” = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XXI above.
CCXLII “time” = yom. Same as “period” in v8. See note XLV above.

51 If manyCCXLIII years remain, theyCCXLIV shall payCCXLV for their redemption in proportion to the purchaseCCXLVI price,CCXLVII 

Notes on verse 51

CCXLIII “many” = rab. Related to “more” in v16. From rabab (see note LXXXIV above). This is abundance, many, elder, exceedingly, great. It refers to abundance of amount, rank, or status.
CCXLIV {untranslated} = peh. Same as {untranslated} in v16. See note LXXXIII above.
CCXLV “pay” = shub. Same as “return” in v10. See note LXI above.
CCXLVI “purchase” = miqnah. Same as “price” in v16. See note LXXXVI above.
CCXLVII “price” = keseph. Same as “money” in v37. See note CLXXXVI above.

52 and if fewCCXLVIII years remainCCXLIX until the Jubilee year, they shall compute thus: according toCCL the years involved they shall make paymentCCLI for their redemption. 53 As a laborer hiredCCLII by the year they shall be under the alien’s authority, who shall not, however, rule with harshness over them in your sight.CCLIII 54 And if they have not been redeemedCCLIV in any of these ways, they and their children with them shall go out in the Jubilee year. 55 For to me the Israelites are servants; they are my servants whom I brought out from the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.

Notes on verses 52-55

CCXLVIII “few” = me’at. Related to “are fewer” in v16. From maat (see note LXXXVIII above). This is a little or few, lightly little while, very small matter.
CCXLIX “remain” = shaar. Related to “anyone of their family who is their own flesh.” See note CCXXXV above.
CCL “according to” = peh. Same as {untranslated} in v16. See note LXXXIII above.
CCLI “make payment” = shub. Same as “return” in v10. See note LXI above.
CCLII “laborer hired” = sakir.  Same as “hired” in v6. See note XXXIII above.
CCLIII “sight” = ayin. This is eye in a literal or figurative sense so eye, appearance, favor, or a fountain (the eye of the landscape).
CCLIV “redeemed” = gaal. Same as “next of kin” in v25. See note CXXVIII above.


Image credit: “Sleepy Goats” by Neil McIntosh, 2012.

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