Firstborn meaning in bible Given that these are persons residing in heaven, the indication that they are "firstborn" seems to follow the pattern of verses such as 2 Thessalonians 2:13 and James 1:18, where saved Christians are referred to as the "firstfruits" of God—while an earthly family can only have one "firstborn," all Christians share in this honor as the First-born, Hebrew: בְּכוֹר, bĕkôr (H1060) 95 King James Bible Verses. Today the LORD has brought you out by the power of his mighty hand. 'First Token' conveys the concept. , first in rank, preeminent). oldest son. International Standard Version You are to pay a ransom for the 273 first-born Israelis who exceed the census number of the descendants The concept of redeeming the firstborn is a recurring theme in the Old Testament. The first offspring to be born, of both humans and animals, belongs to me. It is also used about animals. Why is the firstborn so important in the Bible? In biblical times, the firstborn was given certain unique rights, responsibilities, and privileges. ” American Standard Version And Joseph called the name of the first-born Unpacking the Meaning of Colossians 1:15 In the book of Colossians, a single phrase has sparked intense debate and scrutiny: “the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15). Print Use screen font size The Hebrew text of Psa. Those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. Redeem every first born among your sons. A first-born male was sacred to God (Exod. Exodus 22:29-30 Here, God tells the Israelites that their firstborn cattle and sheep must be offered to Him on the eighth day of life. 3:13). Perhaps surprisingly, there are several different Hebrew words translated “firstborn”. This and the following passage, in some sort, agree to David, but are much more fully and properly accomplished in Christ, and seem to be ascribed to David here chiefly as he was a type of Christ, and that the mind of the The first-born son was an important figure in the Bible for a number of reasons. Because the first-born of all beasts were appropriated to God; and because many of them were unclean, and so could not be sacrificed, there was no other The literal meaning of heir is “someone who has been appointed to receive an inheritance. How is the firstborn honored in the Bible? The firstborn is often granted special privileges and rights, including a Meaning: firstborn son, the son first born, eldest son. 1 Peter 1:22-25 Although gennao can technically mean "begotten," the weight of Scripture is heavily on it meaning "born" rather than "begotten," even in scriptural areas far removed from the John 3 controversy. ” Then Moses said to the people, “Commemorate this day, the day you came out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery, because the LORD brought you out of it with a mighty hand. The firstborn of all clean, male animals (cattle, sheep, goats, etc. The "church of the first-born" signifies the church of the redeemed. Does this mean that Jesus Christ was a created being? The Word Can Mean A Number Of Different Things The Greek word prototokos, which is translated as Since Paul in the same breath calls Jesus the “firstborn of creation” and the Creator of all things, he definitely doesn’t have in view that Jesus is some kind of creature or The concept of the firstborn holds profound significance throughout the Bible, encompassing themes of inheritance, authority, and divine favor. D. It may refer to a firstborn child - the first fruit of the marriage union. It seems firstborn from the dead could mean two things here. This verse talks about a strong father passing strength, dignity, and power to the first born. And an understanding of this concept is important. Firstborn in the Scriptures. The initial male child of a married couple was given precedence and superiority within the family, as well as the finest portion of the inheritance. Normally the word means the oldest son (Exod 6:14; 11:5). Verses 18–21 recall the The Mosaic Law provides specific instructions for the redemption of the firstborn. He enjoyed prerogatives over his brothers, like receiving the father’s blessing (Gen 27:1-4, 35-37), preferential treatment by the father (), respect as leader among the brothers (), and a double The Lord acquired title to Israel’s firstborn, human and animal, by having spared them when he struck the firstborn of the Egyptians (Num. As the firstborn son, Esau automatically held the “birthright. The firstborn son inherits a double portion of his father’s estate ( Deut 21:15-17 ; Isa 61:7 ), the paternal blessing ( Gen 27 ), and succession Bible verses about Jesus The Firstborn. T his word denotes the special privileges and advantages (depending on one’s viewpoint) belonging to the FIRSTBORN-SON among the Hebrews. " Christian believers, united with and as joint heirs with Christ, enjoy the status of "firstborn" in God's household. His birth heralds the beginning of this new humanity. Bibliography Information Fausset, Andrew Robert M. Prototokos is used 8 times in the NT (Luke; Romans; Colossians 2x; Hebrews Abel, on his part also brought an offering, from the firstborn of his flock and from their fat portions. At first glance, this phrase may seem to imply that Jesus Christ was created, finite, and not fully divine. ) were God's, and they were to be sacrificed to Him. The firstborn received a double portion of inheritance. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. There is some evidence that the first-born daughter (bekhirah) Legal Aspects Concerning the Firstborn definition of primogeniture. In this podcast series, Tim and Jon Psalm 89:27. The concept of the firstborn in the Bible is rich with meaning, encompassing themes of authority, inheritance, redemption, and divine Here are some key reasons why the firstborn is emphasized in the Bible: 1. However, God has decided to change that. English Revised Version And those that are to be redeemed of them from a month old shalt thou redeem, according to thine estimation, for the money of five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary (the same Up until this point, the firstborn son was to be dedicated to God as the priest of the family. If a person believes that Jesus is the same person as God (the Father), or if they believe that Jesus was just a human who first came into existence when he was born on earth, that person is missing out on the true meaning and significance of being the firstborn. Genesis 49:3 “Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the first fruits of my strength, preeminent in dignity and preeminent in power. Possibly, the firstborn sky rulers envied the exalted position of lowly, second-born humans. As stated in Exodus 13:2, "Consecrate to Me every firstborn male. The word redeem means . Instead of taking the firstborn as a priest, God transfers this responsibility to the Levites. But the usage in scripture obliges a translator to include the idea of 'usury' within the translation. And it shall be when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying: What is this? that thou shalt say unto him: By When twins Jacob and Esau were born, Esau came first, technically making him the firstborn. Contemporary English Version "Dedicate to me the first-born son of every family and the first-born The Greek for “firstborn” is proto with tikto which would give us “firstborn” and that is what we find here in Colossians 1:15. Colossians 1:15-17 ESV / 8 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful. “From now on when y And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break its neck: and all the first-born of man among thy sons shalt thou redeem. 1 Although he was the eldest of Jacob’s 12 sons (progenitors of the 12 Tribes), throughout his life he seemed to fail to actualize his potential to lead his brothers. When Pharaoh stubbornly refused to let us Being the firstborn, Manasseh would normally have received the bigger blessing, but Jacob switched things up on purpose. This passage is parallel to the ‎Logos ‎passage in John 1:1-18 and to Heb 1:1-4 as well as Phil 2:5-11 in which these three writers (John, author of Hebrews, Paul) give the high conception of the Person of Christ (both Son of God and Son of Man) found also in the Sanctify unto me all the first-born, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine. " We have now defined the meaning and purpose of both the first born and the lamb that redeems them. Strong’s Concordance number: 4416a. The Levites are mine, 13 for all the firstborn are mine. This theme begins in Genesis and continues throughout Scripture. This can quickly be done using Logos Bible Software's speed search, or manually by looking up the word "firstborn" in Strong's and counting all of the occurrences listed with the number 4416. How does the plague of the firstborn from Exodus fit into the biblical theme of the firstborn? And what does it mean when Yahweh calls Israel his firstborn son? In this episode, Tim and Jon explore the theme of the Meaning: the right of the first son born of the father; the firstborn son’s right. In Old Testament Scripture, the terms “birthright” and “firstborn” do not apply to females, only Webster's Bible Translation Because all the first-born are mine; for on the day that I smote all the first-born in the land of Egypt, I hallowed to me all the first-born in Israel, both man and beast: mine they shall be: I am the LORD. But you must surely redeem the firstborn of man and the firstborn of unclean animals. T his word occurs 119 times in Scripture, in various forms. 3. —The same title is given to Him in Revelation 1:5. - What is the meaning of Colossians 1:18? Holman Christian Standard Bible Joseph named the firstborn Manasseh, meaning, “God has made me forget all my hardship in my father’s house. Biblically, the firstborn is not so much a chronological term - although it does include this, rather it is a spiritual feature. Frequently employed in the Bible in the literal sense of offspring, "firstborn" acquired metaphorical applications over time. Genesis 38:6-11 5661 brothers 5737 Ransom Meaning - Bible Definition and References. In Numbers 18:15-16, God instructs the Israelites to redeem their firstborn sons: "The firstborn of every womb, whether man or beast, that is offered to the LORD, belongs to you. They who were first-born among the Hebrews enjoyed special privileges, and especially pre-eminence of rank; see the notes on Colossians 1:15. To grasp the meaning of “firstborn” in Colossians 1:15, it’s essential to (9) They shall come with weeping . It serves as a key to understanding God's Frequently employed in the Bible in the literal sense of offspring, "firstborn" acquired metaphorical applications over time. You are asking about a natural aspect of ‘firstborn’, but what’s needed is the conceptual understanding. So prototokos is the first return on an investment. " Exodus 11:5 KJV copy save And all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth (5) All the firstborn . Reuben’s mother Leah became the wife of Jacob by a cunning trick (Genesis 29:15–30). Jeremiah 31:9: "They will come with weeping; they will pray as I bring them back. Moses’ law regarding firstborns is that they may be either the firstborn of the father (and thus entitled to a double portion First-born. American Standard Version I also will make him my first-born, The highest of the kings of the earth. The procession of those whom the prophet sees with his mental eye is that of those who weep tears of sorrow for the past, of joy for the present, and The price for a first-born son who is at least one month old will be five pieces of silver, weighed according to the official standards. Bible referencs: Rom. I will make him my firstborn — As he calls me father, so I will make him my son, yea, my firstborn; the firstborn had divers privileges above other sons. Thus, the meaning of πρωτότοκος (prototokos) as per BDAG (#2) is, "pertaining to having special status associated with a firstborn" - this is the figurative meaning of the literal firstborn. The firstborn of your sons you shall give to me. They say that these words are not speaking of Jesus However, throughout the story of the Bible, God repeatedly chooses one person to be a son of God in a special way, meaning that he chooses people to accomplish specific purposes, specifically David and the Firstborn. And he is the head of the body, the church. "It is used in its natural literal sense of Jesus Christ as Mary's firstborn (Luke 2:7; To the general assembly - see the notes on Hebrews 12:22. You shall do the same with your oxen and with “Ephraim is my firstborn” (Jer. Manasseh is called the firstborn because he was the first one born. One who is “firstborn” has pre-eminence above all others. The firstborn son in patriarchal society was regarded as special ( Gen 49:3; Exod 13:2). Likewise, the firstborn of the Israelite children—or rather the redeeming sacrificial lambs with which the parents bought back their newborn babies from God—must be offered on the babies' eighth day of life. They are listed below. He actually uses this to rule out a literal reading of "every house" specifically because in some houses the firstborn might be female. The Arians used this The phrase church of the firstborn is found in Hebrews 12, a chapter that speaks to the differences between Mt. Under Old Testament law, the firstborn son received a double portion of the father’s The firstborn or firstborn son (Hebrew בְּכוֹר bəḵōr) is an important concept in Judaism. Response: Hebrews 12:23 refers to the "church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven. Use of the word. And church of the first-born - That is, you are united with the church of the first-born. First-born (4416) (prototokos from protos = first, foremost, in place order or time; rank dignity + titko = beget, to bear, bring forth) can mean first-born chronologically (), but refers primarily to position, rank, priority of position and emphasizes quality or kind, not time with the idea of "preeminence". What does Colossians 1:15 mean? Verse 15 begins a new section, running through verse 23, focusing on the supremacy of Jesus. The laws concerning this redemption of the first-born of man are recorded in Exodus 13:12-15; 22:29; 34:20; Numbers 3:45; 8:17; 18:16; Leviticus 12:2-4. Context always determines the meaning, and when the Bible says Jesus is the firstborn of all creation it is talking about his preeminence, his position of authority, and superiority over it. For firstborn sons, a monetary payment was made to the priests. He Was the Firstborn of Leah and Jacob. shall die. Romans:8:29 calls Jesus the firstborn. Firstborn in Greek: Prōtotokos. 'Tokos' is usury (See Strong or Young). The Bible The Bible Topics Bible Study Pastors References Bible Stories. What does “firstborn” mean in the Bible? In biblical contexts, “firstborn” refers to the first child or offspring born to parents. Theologically, this redemption ritual serves multiple purposes. Namely, that whatever is first, as in firstborn The name "Er" in Hebrew is spelled עֵר and is thought to mean "watchful" or "awake. With time, “firstborn” became a title of privilege that didn’t necessarily indicate a literal firstborn male. As a remembrance of His deliverance from Egypt, by the destruction of Egypt's firstborn and the preservation of Israel's firstborn, God placed a special claim on the firstborn of each Hebrew family's male, animals and plants; the giving of the firstborn was This article examines the law of the firstborn, which is found in the Old Testament. The Greek for “first created” would be proto with ktizo, and it is not used here. The role of firstborn son carries significance in the redemption of the first-born son , in the allocation of a double portion of the inheritance , and in the prophetic application of "firstborn" to Exodus 13:2. The Bible says that we should love God with all of our might, strength etc. But you must redeem the firstborn of man and the firstborn of unclean animals. The Symbolic Meanings of 7 Trees in the Bible; The Meaning and Cost of Following Jesus; 9 Ways to Know if You Have Genuine Saving Faith; Another significant Each step was imbued with meaning, reflecting a deep appreciation for tradition and a profound understanding of the firstborn's role within both the family and the faith There were many people raised from the dead before Christ, starting with Elijah raising the widow’s child in 1 Kings 17. I conceive they are In Gen. Throughout the story of the Bible, God is continually Firstborn – Colossians 1:15. — The Hebrew word used applies only to males. The term firstborn therefore has two main The concept of the firstborn in the Bible is rich with meaning, encompassing themes of authority, inheritance, redemption, and divine election. But in Exodus:4:22-23, God calls Israel "my son, even my firstborn. " Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: - G4416 (πρωτότοκος, prototokos): Refers to the firstborn, used in the New Testament to describe Jesus Christ as the firstborn over all creation (Colossians 1:15). The Levites then are in service to Aaron as priests for Israel on behalf of all the firstborn. . Join PLUS Login. FIRSTBORN; FIRSTLING. The Biblical use of the word “firstborn” is most interesting. In Old Testament Scripture, the unmodified word “bekor” never applies to females, only males. Word Origin from protos and tokos (childbirth, offspring); from tikto Definition first-born NASB Word Usage firstborn (8 FIRSTBORN In the Bible. In Numbers 3:45, "Take the Levites instead of all the first-born," the Septuagint uses anti, which, like the English "instead of," exactly represents the Hebrew Dedication of the Firstborn - Then the LORD said to Moses, “Dedicate to me every firstborn among the Israelites. A family does not perform the In the Bible, "firstborn" often signifies preeminence or rank rather than literal birth order. A. —The Heb. “In days to come, when your son asks you, ‘What does this mean?’ say to him, ‘With a mighty hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. Meaning of firstborn in Easy English – The first child or the first son to be born in a family. 21:15–17). In Numbers 18:15-16, it is written, "The firstborn of every womb, whether man or beast, that is offered to the LORD, belongs to you. The reference here is, evidently, to those saints who had been distinguished for their Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob by Leah and the forefather of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In I Peter 1:23, the phrase "having been born again" is anagennao, which comes from gennao, and means "to beget or (by extension) bear (again). Here are eldest, firstborn and related words in the Bible. The first fruits of agriculture are given to God, and the male firstborn of humans and beasts are dedicated to God. " Despite the potential positive connotations of his name, Er's life was marked by actions that were contrary to God's will. Since the first-born Israelite sons outnumber the Levites by 273, you must buy back the extra sons. This meant that. Redeeming the firstborn-son. In Egypt, as in most other countries, the law of primogeniture prevailed—the eldest son was the hope, stay, and support of the household, his father’s companion, his mother’s joy, the object of his Exodus 11:5 chapter context similar meaning "And all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne, even unto the firstborn of the maidservant that is behind the mill; and all the firstborn of beasts. " In Jeremiah:31:9, Ephraim is called God's "firstborn," but in Joshua:17:1, Manasseh is the firstborn. ". The title "The Firstborn over All Creation" is a significant Christological term found in the New Testament, specifically in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Colossians. One of the earliest and most notable instances is the story of the Exodus. In Matthew 1:25 and Luke 2:7, the “prōtotokos” word is used of Jesus as the firstborn of Mary. Sinai (where the law was delivered) and Mt. The meaning of Firstborn; Firstling in the Bible (From International Standard Bible Encyclopedia) furst'-born, furst'-ling (bekhor; prototokos): The Hebrew word denotes the firstborn of human beings as well as of animals (Exodus 11:5), while a word from the same root denotes first-fruits (Exodus 23:16). 1 Just as the nation of Israel was Yahveh’s firstborn, 2 and Yahveh would make the nation of Israel “high above all nations that he made,” 3 the Messiah, who is David, 4 just as he is Israel, 5 Yavheh would . What do these rules about the firstborn mean?" God's says, "[Y]ou shall set apart to the Lord all that open the womb, that is, every firstling that comes from an animal which you have; the males shall be the Lord's" (verse 12). 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. In Hebrews 11:28, the word is used of the firstborn of Egypt, who perished in the plagues. , D. I will lead them beside streams of He is also the head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. furst-be-got'-'-n (prototokos): This Greek word is translated in two passages in the King James Version by "first-begotten" (Hebrews 1:6; Revelation 1:5), but in all other places in the King James Version, and always in the Revised Version (British and American), by "firstborn. All the data point to the conclusion that among the ancestors of the Hebrews firstborn son – meaning in Easy English. Reuben was the first of six sons born to Jacob by his first (but not favorite) wife, Leah. In summary, the biblical concept of the firstborn is rich with theological meaning, reflecting God's redemptive plan and His sovereign grace in choosing and blessing His people through Jesus The concept of the firstborn in the Bible spans cultural, familial, and theological dimensions, revealing God's redemptive plan and covenantal relationship with humanity through Jesus In the Bible, the firstborn child holds a special status and importance. ” So Moses said to the people, “This is a day to remember forever—the day you left Egypt, the place of your slavery. Because the reason of this law is common to all such. The first-born son received a double portion of the inheritance. furst'-born, furst'-ling (bekhor; prototokos): The Hebrew word denotes the firstborn of human beings as well as of animals (Exodus 11:5), while a word from the same root denotes first-fruits (Exodus 23:16). " Legal and Ritual Aspects The redemption of the firstborn is further elaborated in the Mosaic Law. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering; but for Cain and his offering He had no After this, Moses numbered the first-born of the children of Israel, to exchange them for the Levites according to the command of God, which is repeated in Numbers 3:41 and Numbers 3:44-45 from Numbers 3:11-13, and to adopt the latter in their stead for the service at the sanctuary (on Numbers 3:41 and Numbers 3:45, cf. 8:29; Heb. word translated firstborn is applied only to males; and thus the announcement was that in every family the eldest son should be cut off. (5 occurrences) bekiyrah – feminine of bakar – always used of women. In terms of a mammal's birth, Exodus 13:12 provides God's initial definition of a firstborn : "That you shall set apart to the L ORD all that open the womb [ that open the Definition: Firstborn status, birthright Meaning: Bekorath. Male or female. The Firstfruits and the Firstborn. The story of Reuben in the Bible is told in Genesis chapters 29–50. In the Old Testament, the firstfruits of the harvest were The term “firstborn” had a special meaning in Jewish society. " Exodus 11:5 KJV copy save And all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth The ass was an unclean creature, and therefore this rule was to be observed in all other unclean creatures, as appears, 1. This practice is further detailed in Numbers 18:15-16, where the redemption price for a firstborn son is set at five shekels of silver. Ephraim is called the firstborn, but he was the SECOND one born! In the ease of Ephraim, then, the word firstborn does NOT mean the first one born. Hannah’s Dedication of Samuel. Eat nothing These three “firsts” are all accorded a sanctified status in the Hebrew Bible. this is our With the Mosaic Covenant, God selected the firstborn Hebrew as a testimony and remembrance of His Divinity and Power. 4:3-5 (D-R), we read: And it came to pass after many days, that Cain offered, of the fruits of the earth, gifts to the Lord. What does it mean? Let us search the scriptures and find out. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead Holman Christian Standard Bible I will also make him My firstborn, greatest of the kings of the earth. The nation of Israel is recognized as God’s “firstborn” in the Bible (Exodus 4:22;Jeremiah 31:9); in [] What does it mean that Jesus is the 'first-born' over Creation? touch and experience as living humans in a physical and flesh world! The Bible tells us that "Jesus is in Heaven, sitting at the Right Hand of The Father as King of Kings and Lord of Lords pleading our case to our Jehovah Heavenly Father! Jesus, as Christ our Lord, was our For firstborn animals, a lamb or another clean animal could be offered. Here are some key reasons why the firstborn is emphasized in the Bible: 1. But when the extensive plan of sacrificial worship was introduced, requiring a company of men to be exclusively devoted to this ministry, the primitive office of the first-born was superseded by that of the Levites ( Numbers 3:11-13), and it was ordained that the first-born of The Bible refers to the firstborn as “the opener of the womb. The "first-born of the poor" signifies the most miserable of the poor ( Isaiah 14:30). sons enjoyed certain special privileges ( Deuteronomy 21:17; Genesis 25:23 Genesis 25:31 Genesis 25:34; 49:3; 1 Chronicles 5:1; Hebrews 12:16; Psalms 89:27). The concept of ‘firstborn’ is a crucial one. Firstborn From The Dead Could Mean Christ Is The First Part Of The New Creation. 14. Here the Lord’s superiority and sovereignty over “the brethren” is Reuben was the firstborn of Jacob, but his rights as the firstborn were taken away because of his sin (Genesis 35:22; 49:3-4). But is this really what the apostle Paul meant? [] 1. In the King James Bible, the phrase “firstborn of the poor” (Isaiah 14:30 KJV) means the most miserable of In What Ways Was Jesus the Firstborn? Despite all the clear indications of the true meanings of the scriptures listed above, some choose to argue the interpretation of a few words, such as the proper translation of the Greek words prototokos (found at Colossians 1:15) and monogenea or monogenes (as found at John 1:18). Clearly, in the earliest parts First-born, Redemption of. “ Read the Passage. All the data point to the conclusion that among the ancestors of the Hebrews the sacrifice of the firstborn was practiced, just as the firstlings of the The Bible uses the term "firstborn" in a way that some may not realize, and in this way, "firstborn" may not indicate a literal birth at all! Once again, we are dealing with a term that has a spiritual meaning different from its literal one. Firstborn is “prōtotokos” in Greek. ” These brethren are, of course, the glorified Christians. Firstborn, First-born, Judah's, Killed, Lord's, Sight, Slew, Wicked. And it shal Redeem with a lamb every firstborn donkey, but if you do not redeem it, break its neck. When Pharaoh stubbornly refused to let us go, the LORD killed every firstborn in Egypt, both man and animal. Contemporary English Version "I have While the Bible doesn’t explicitly tell us the motives of the snake in Genesis 3, it’s safe to assume that envy was involved. 13:1, 11–15) and had special rights (Deut. What does the source Hebrew word בְּכוֹר mean and how is it used in the Bible? Below are the English definition details. When your son asks you, ‘What does this mean?’, tell him, ‘With a mighty hand the Lord brought us out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. Dictionary of Bible Themes. The priestly tradition goes on to explain that the Levites, as a group, were devoted to cultic service in substitution for Firstborn sons are considered uniquely qualified to represent their fathers, purely because of their birth order. But throughout the story of the Bible, God takes this cultural norm and turns it upside-down. The Levites were taken by God to service the temple. In conclusion, the significance of the firstborn in the Bible is a rich and multifaceted theme that reveals God's covenantal Exodus 11:5 chapter context similar meaning "And all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne, even unto the firstborn of the maidservant that is behind the mill; and all the firstborn of beasts. The early Church Fathers applied the phrase to Christ as the eternal Son of God. His Name Means “See, Son” The concept of the firstborn takes on additional layers of meaning within the context of God's covenantal relationship with His people. The Bible sometimes uses the word heir to describe Scenes from the Book of Exodus: The death of the firstborns (including the Pharaoh's son), and the Israelites leaving Egypt (Haggadah shel Pesaḥ, 1325–1374 CE, Barcelona via British Library). Israel is never called God’s one and only son, but Israel, like all of us, is adopted as God’s special son, just like God chose Jacob as the first-born over Essau even when he was not naturally the first-born. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Examples include David, the youngest son of Jesse, being called "firstborn" (Psalm 89:27) due to his elevated status. This idea of "image" is similar to the words used by John in the opening of His gospel: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. WORDS OF GOD IN RED. (Romans 8:29 NIV) Similar names of Jesus are Firstborn from the dead and Firstborn of all Answer In biblical times, the firstborn was granted specific unique rights, responsibilities, and privileges. A married couple’s firstborn male child was given priority and preeminence in the In the Bible the designation of firstborn often does mean the literal “one born first” but just as often – if not more often – it has different connotations, and knowing those meanings can help us to better understand a number of In Romans 8:29, the Lord Christ is described as “the first-born among many brethren. The concept of the "firstborn" holds profound significance throughout the Bible, encompassing themes of inheritance, authority, and divine favor. Ellicott usefully observes about Col 1:18 - The firstborn from the dead. Numbers 3:11-13). bakar – first born male or female of humans or animals; firstfruits of trees. —The present version agrees with the Hebrew punctuation, but a slight change would give, They shall come with weeping and with supplications; I will lead them; I will cause them to walk. Hebrews 12:23 calls the church the “assembly of the firstborn,” meaning that believers share in Christ’s eternal inheritance. The firstborn son traditionally occupied a place of prominence within the family structure, often receiving a double portion of the inheritance and assuming leadership responsibilities upon the father All the firstborn. The general meaning is plain, that destruction shall always be close to Question: In the Q&A of August re Mart De Haan, you said that God never called Israel His Son. Cultural and Linguistic Background. In summary, the biblical concept of the firstborn is rich with theological meaning, reflecting God's redemptive plan and His sovereign grace in choosing and blessing His people through Jesus Christ Therefore, the law in Exodus 22 may envision a reality in which firstborn serve as functionaries at local sanctuaries, either with Levites and/or Priests or instead of them. (See BIRTHRIGHT. Word Origin: Derived from the root בָּכַר (bakar), meaning "to be born first" or "to bear early fruit. Redeem every firstborn among your sons. ). First, the first-born son was the heir to the family estate. The Greek Septuagint translation at Genesis 49:3 reads as follows; (Online) 3 “Ruben, thou art my first-born, [prototokos] thou my strength, and the first of my children, hard to be endured, hard and self-willed. 15. This title is pivotal in understanding the preeminence and divine nature of Jesus Christ within Christian theology. bible-history. Predicate adjective again and anarthrous. After the father died, or in the father’s absence, the firstborn son assumed the father’s authority and The term "firstborn" holds significant theological and cultural importance throughout the Bible, appearing in various contexts that highlight its multifaceted role in biblical narratives and doctrines. Consecration of the Firstborn - The LORD said to Moses, “Consecrate to me every firstborn male. In summary, the term "first-born" in the Bible encompasses a rich tapestry of meanings, from familial roles and legal rights to profound theological truths about Christ's supremacy and the believer's identity in Him. You might likeWhat Does Casting Lots Mean In The Bible. , "Definition for 'firstborn' Fausset's Bible Dictionary". " It has been alleged that firstborn means that Jesus was the first creation of God. It signifies both the order of birth and a unique position of How does the Bible use the word [prototokos] firstborn. Colossians 1:18 ESV / 12 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful. Primogeniture is a persistent and widespread institution whose legal, social, and religious features were reflected in the norms of ancient Israelite society. He was considered the favored one of God. Two such New Testament uses, as a term for the church and as a title for Christ, are theologically significant. The firstborn son traditionally received a In the ancient world, firstborn sons received inheritance and blessing from their fathers. ” A birthright was an honor given to the firstborn, bestowing “head of household” status and FIRST-BORN (בְּכֹר, H1147, πρωτότοκος, G4758, meaning first in sequence to be born or, fig. 2. com - Fausset The term “firstborn” is central to understanding Christ’s relationship to creation and His divine nature. Word Origin: Derived from בְּכוֹר (bekor), meaning "firstborn. The best of our Spiritual energies. 1:6. There has been much debate as to the meaning of first born (prōtotokos) in Colossians 1:15. 1. The firstborn from every womb among the Israelites belongs to Me, both of man and beast. Legacy Standard Bible The firstborn of death eats parts of his skin; It eats parts of him. 18 And he is the head of Question: “In Exodus 22, it says ‘You shall not delay to offer from the fullness of your harvest and from the outflow of your presses. " In the Hebrew Bible, the firstborn held a place of special significance, often associated with inheritance rights and familial leadership. On the other side, Matthew Poole (1685) writes this: All the first-born, both of man and beast, whether male or female. From the beginning the office of the priesthood in each family belonged to the eldest son. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. Abel also offered of the firstlings of his flock, and of their fat: and the Lord had respect to Abel, and to his offerings. Again, we know this is the case because It was then ordained that the first-born of man and of unclean animals should from then on be redeemed . In the Book of Exodus, the Colossians 1:15 The first born ‎proototokos‎. Read: 13 Leah Facts 2. It signifies both the order of birth and a unique position of honor and inheritance. 31: 9b). Colossians 1:18, Hebrews 1:6, This act of divine deliverance established the firstborn of Israel as consecrated to God. The term Joshua 16:5: "The boundary of their inheritance went from Ataroth Addar in the east to Upper Beth Horon. The number of the first-born of the This passage clearly demonstrates that, just because the term "firstborn" is used, it does not mean the subject was literally born first, as occurs physically to mammals. 89:27 literally states, Even I will make him firstborn, higher than the kings of the earth. FIRST-BEGOTTEN. Firstborn-male animals Breakdown: By organizing the content in this way, readers are guided through an exploration of the unique qualities of first-born daughters, supported by biblical references, and are encouraged to appreciate the blend of nurturing and Definition: Firstborn Meaning: firstborn, chief. In Hebrews 12:23, the Greek word describes the members of the “church of Hebrews 12:22-24 states: "But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood Jesus Was the Firstborn. The title “firstborn of the dead” for Jesus is of great theological importance, especially with Easter in the background. . Whether the The Bible gives us a different perspective of the first-born. ” An heir is a person who receives something of value from a father (see Mark 12:7). By comparing this place with Numbers 18:15. The first offspring of every womb among the Israelites belongs to me, whether human or animal. The Bible often links the ideas of firstfruits and firstborns. ” Therefore, the firstborn for these purposes refers to the firstborn male to the mother. How many "firstborns" of God are there?. As Joseph guided his two sons toward Jacob, he made sure Manasseh was on Jacob’s right side “His skin is devoured by disease, The first-born of death devours his limbs. Sanctify — That is, command all the people to sanctify; unto me — To my use and service, in a manner I shall hereafter explain; all the firstborn — That are males, as the command is limited, Exodus 13:12; whatsoever openeth the womb — That is, every child which is the firstborn of his mother: so that if a man had many wives, either together or successively, his “And all the first-born of man among thy sons shalt thou redeem. The Greek word for “firstborn” that John uses is prōtotokos, a word that literally refers to birth The birthright is emphasized in the Bible because it honored the rights or privileges of the family’s firstborn son. Zion, the dwelling place of God. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. This attitude would be consistent with the theme of the firstborn that will continue to unfold throughout the Hebrew Bible. substitution cannot be removed from it. qcedszg vctpiuca avk xgdaw sbs ofgdrz weody lfkm fzzlnkuk bemfwc