Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 25:49 mean?
A: Leviticus 25:49 discusses the laws of redemption for someone who has sold themselves into servitude due to financial hardship. The verse specifies that close relatives—such as an uncle, cousin, or any family member—can redeem (buy back) the person's freedom. If no relative is available, the person can redeem themselves if they acquire enough money. This law emphasizes the importance of family responsibility and compassion in Jewish tradition.
Q: Why is family redemption important in this verse?
A: Family redemption is important because it reflects the Torah's value of keeping families together and supporting one another in times of need. The Talmud (Kiddushin 20a) and Rashi explain that relatives have a moral obligation to help free a family member from servitude. This teaches us the principle of 'areivut' (mutual responsibility) among the Jewish people, where we must look out for each other's welfare.
Q: How does Leviticus 25:49 apply today?
A: While the literal practice of redeeming a family member from servitude is not common today, the underlying principle remains relevant. The verse teaches us to assist relatives in financial or personal struggles, whether through monetary help, emotional support, or other means. The Rambam (Hilchos Matnos Aniyim 8:10) extends this idea to general acts of charity and kindness, reinforcing that helping others—especially family—is a core Jewish value.
Q: What can we learn from Leviticus 25:49?
A: We learn that no one should be left without support. The Torah ensures that even in difficult circumstances, a person has multiple ways to regain freedom—through family or their own efforts. This highlights the importance of community, responsibility, and hope. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 34:1) connects this to the broader idea that redemption is always possible, both physically and spiritually.
Q: Who qualifies as a 'near of kin' for redemption in this verse?
A: According to Rashi and Talmudic interpretation (Bava Metzia 71b), 'near of kin' refers to close relatives who have a familial obligation to help. This includes uncles, cousins, and other extended family members. The order of priority follows the closeness of the relationship, with immediate family taking precedence if possible. The Torah outlines this structure to ensure that redemption is carried out in an orderly and compassionate manner.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Vayikra 25:49) appears in the Torah portion of Behar, which discusses the laws of redemption for an Israelite who has fallen into poverty and sold himself into servitude. The Torah outlines the hierarchy of relatives who may redeem him, as well as the possibility of self-redemption if he acquires sufficient means.
Hierarchy of Redemption
Underlying Principles
The Talmud (Kiddushin 20a) derives from this verse that redeeming a relative is a mitzvah, emphasizing the importance of preserving human dignity and preventing prolonged servitude. The Midrash (Toras Kohanim 25:49) further teaches that this law reinforces the idea that all Jews are interconnected—when one suffers, the community must act.
Practical Halachic Implications
The Shulchan Aruch (Choshen Mishpat 67:1) rules that while redemption is a mitzvah, it is not compulsory if the redeemer lacks means. However, if capable, one must prioritize redeeming a relative over other charitable obligations, as family bonds take precedence (Rema, Choshen Mishpat 251:3).