The Jubilee and the Role of the Redeemer in Lev 25:23-34

Abstract

In this Holy Year (2025), Pope Francis urges not only to consider the liturgical elements and other events specific to the celebration of the Jubilee, but, in a special way, its social consequences. In line with this appeal from Francis, this article aims to analyze the text of Leviticus 25:23-34, using the historical-critical-literary method, which highlights the possibility of redeeming land that was sold due to debt, either by a “nearest kinsman” (redeemer) or through its restoration in the Jubilee year. This study emphasizes the social dimension of the Jubilee, already present in biblical texts, and the role of the “redeemer” in property redemption, and God as redeemer, as “nearest kinsman”.

Keywords: Jubilee. Lev 25:23-34. Redeemer. Property.