Tag Archives Redemption

Redemption of the firstborn

Yoel Halevi No Comments

Introduction

The significance of the first born in biblical literature is presented both in narrative and law. This current article will be dealing with the background and legal details of the redemption of the first born and how to practice the law in our current world. 

The Importance of the Firstborn

The term bǝḵôr (firstborn) is found 122 times in different variations in the Hebrew text. We find in multiple occasions the importance of the firstborn in law, narrative and poetry. The first born is the proper sacrifice (Gen 4:4, Lev 27:26, Duet 15:19), he receives double portion in inheritance (Duet 21:17) and he is the center of the sons in all families (Gen 48:18, Jer 31:8, Zek 12:10). We find the same principle in the ancient near east in different law codes where the sone inherits double portions called alâtu (Hartom, 1954, p.125).

1

Join My Group Bible Class TODAY!

The class is done in a virtual class room with multiple participants. We meet on Sundays at 11:45am US eastern, or 6:45pm Israel time. You do not need to know Hebrew for this class, and you also receive a recording of the classes every month. For the link and how to join, click the More Info Button to email us.