Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Numbers - Chapter 27 - Verse 10

27:10
And if he have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his father's brethren.

Meaning

In the verse "And if he have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his father's brethren," the meaning is that if a man dies without any sons or brothers, his inheritance should pass to his father's brothers. This rule was established in ancient times to ensure that a man's property and wealth would stay within his extended family and not be lost to outsiders. By giving the inheritance to the nearest male relatives on the paternal side, it ensured that the family name and legacy would be preserved. This law also provided for those who may not have had direct descendants to ensure that their property would still benefit their relatives and maintain a sense of familial connection. In a broader sense, this verse highlights the importance of family ties and the responsibility of caring for one's relatives even after death.

Theological Overview

When looking at the verse "And if he have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his father's brethren," a theological interpretation can reveal the importance of family and bloodlines in ancient societies. In this context, the verse is discussing the distribution of inheritance in cases where a man has no living sons. According to biblical scholars, inheritance laws in ancient Israel were structured to ensure that family wealth and property remained within the tribe and clan. Therefore, if a man had no sons to inherit his portion of land, it would pass to his male relatives from his father's side. This practice reflects the cultural values of the time, where ancestral connections were highly prized, and the family lineage was considered sacred.

American Standard Version

And if he have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his father's brethren.
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