Old Testament
Leviticus 25:28
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Leviticus 25:28, the law addresses the situation where someone has to sell their property due to financial hardship.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
But if they can't afford to buy it back, the property stays with the buyer until the Year of Jubilee. At the Jubilee, it will be released, and the original owner will get their property back.
But if he be not able to restore it to him, then that which is sold shall remain in the hand of him that hath bought it until the year of jubile: and in the jubile it shall go out, and he shall return unto his possession.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 25:28, the law addresses the situation where someone has to sell their property due to financial hardship. If the seller cannot afford to buy back their land, the buyer retains ownership until the Year of Jubilee, which occurs every fifty years. During this special year, all properties that were sold are returned to their original owners, ensuring that families can reclaim their ancestral land. This system was designed to prevent permanent loss of property and to promote economic fairness within the community. It reflects God's concern for justice and the well-being of His people, emphasizing the importance of family heritage and the equitable distribution of resources. Explore related restoration.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Leviticus 25:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider the importance of fairness and justice in our dealings with others. It reminds us to support those in need and to create systems that allow for restoration and equity, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reclaim what is rightfully theirs.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 25:28 mean?
Leviticus 25:28 explains that if someone sells their property due to financial difficulties and cannot buy it back, the buyer keeps it until the Year of Jubilee. In that year, the property is returned to the original owner, promoting fairness and preventing permanent loss of land.
What is the significance of the Year of Jubilee in Leviticus 25:28?
The Year of Jubilee, mentioned in Leviticus 25:28, is significant because it represents a time when all sold properties are returned to their original owners every fifty years. This practice was intended to restore family heritage and ensure economic justice within the community.
What does the term 'property rights' refer to in Leviticus 25:28?
In Leviticus 25:28, 'property rights' refer to the legal and moral claim individuals have to their land and possessions. The verse emphasizes that even in times of hardship, families should have the opportunity to reclaim their property during the Year of Jubilee.
How does Leviticus 25:28 relate to economic justice?
Leviticus 25:28 relates to economic justice by establishing a system that prevents the permanent loss of property due to financial struggles. It ensures that everyone has a chance to regain their ancestral land, promoting fairness and equity in the community.

The Book of Leviticus
Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering
The LORD calls to Moses from the tabernacle and gives instructions for the burnt offering. A man who brings a burnt offering from the herd presents a male without blemish at the door of the tabernacle. He lays his hand on the head of the offering, kills it, and Aaron's sons the priests sprinkle the blood around the altar. The animal is flayed and cut into pieces, and the whole is burned on the altar as a sweet savor to the LORD.
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