Definition: But the field of the suburbs of their cities may not be sold; for it [is] their perpetual possession.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 25:34. It’s a pretty interesting and important passage about how land is handled in the Old Testament. Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means that the land surrounding cities – the suburbs and areas just outside the main city center – are permanently owned by God and his people. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But the field of the suburbs…” This refers to the areas immediately around a city. Think of it as the land that's not part of the city walls or boundaries. “…may not be sold…” This is the core of the verse. It’s not allowed to be bought, bartered, or traded. The land remains under God’s control. “…for it [is] their perpetual possession.” This is the key part! It's not just a temporary thing; the land is forever theirs. This isn’t about them being the owners for a specific period, but rather that they have a continuous, lifelong claim to it. What does this tell us about Old Testament practice? Historically, this verse was crucial for maintaining order and preventing conflict between cities and farmers. The city dwellers owned the land around their borders, and God protected them from being taken by others. This ensured stability and fairness in the distribution of resources. Why is it significant? Divine Protection: It highlights God's protection of his people and the land as a whole. Fairness & Stability: It’s designed to prevent exploitation and ensure that those who are supposed to own the land remain in control. Symbolic Meaning: Many theologians see this verse as a symbolic representation of God's relationship with his people, emphasizing their covenant and responsibility for the land. In short, Leviticus 25:34 says that the land surrounding cities is essentially owned by God and will remain so indefinitely. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss a specific aspect of this verse (like its historical context)?