Old Testament
Leviticus 25:16
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If many years remain, the price goes up. If only a few years remain, the price goes down. What's really being sold is the number of harvests until the next Jubilee.
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According to the multitude of years thou shalt increase the price thereof, and according to the fewness of years thou shalt diminish the price of it: for according to the number of the years of the fruits doth he sell unto thee.
What Leviticus 25:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 25:16, God provides guidelines for fair pricing of land based on the number of years until the Jubilee, a time when land would be returned to its original owner. If there are many years left until the Jubilee, the price of the land increases because the buyer can benefit from more harvests. Conversely, if only a few years remain, the price decreases since the buyer will have fewer harvests before the land returns to its original owner. This system ensures that transactions are fair and reflect the true value of the land based on its productive potential. It emphasizes the importance of justice and equity in economic dealings, reminding the Israelites that the land ultimately belongs to God and should be treated with respect and fairness.
How to apply Leviticus 25:16 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of fairness in our transactions. In our daily lives, we should strive to ensure that our dealings with others are just and equitable, reflecting the value of what is being exchanged. Being mindful of fairness can strengthen relationships and build trust.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 25:16 mean?
Leviticus 25:16 explains how to price land fairly based on the number of years until the Jubilee. If there are many years left, the price is higher due to more potential harvests, while fewer years mean a lower price since the buyer will benefit from fewer harvests.
What is the significance of the Jubilee in Leviticus 25:16?
The Jubilee is a time when land is returned to its original owner, emphasizing the idea that land ultimately belongs to God. This affects how land is valued and sold, ensuring fairness in economic transactions.
How does Leviticus 25:16 relate to economic justice?
This verse promotes economic justice by ensuring that land transactions reflect its true value based on harvest potential. It encourages fairness and equity in dealings, reminding people to respect the land and its rightful ownership.
What does 'fair pricing' mean in Leviticus 25:16?
Fair pricing in Leviticus 25:16 means adjusting the price of land based on how many harvests can be expected before the next Jubilee. This system ensures that buyers pay a fair amount relative to the land's productive value.
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