The term "forfeiteth" is an archaic form of the verb "forfeit," which means to lose or give up something as a penalty for wrongdoing or neglect. In the context of the Bible, forfeiture often relates to the loss of blessings, inheritance, or life due to disobedience or sin against God's commandments.

Biblical Context and Usage:

1. Old Testament Law and Covenant:
The concept of forfeiture is deeply embedded in the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. Under the Mosaic Law, the Israelites were given specific commandments and statutes to follow. Failure to adhere to these laws often resulted in forfeiture of blessings or even life. For example, in Deuteronomy 28, God outlines the blessings for obedience and the curses for disobedience, indicating that disobedience would lead to the forfeiture of God's favor and protection.

2. Inheritance and Land:
The idea of forfeiture is also evident in the context of inheritance and land. In the book of Numbers, the daughters of Zelophehad appeal to Moses for their father's inheritance, which would have been forfeited due to the absence of a male heir (Numbers 27:1-11). This case led to a change in the inheritance laws, ensuring that a family's inheritance would not be permanently forfeited due to lack of male descendants.

3. Moral and Spiritual Forfeiture:
The prophets frequently warned Israel about the spiritual forfeiture that comes from idolatry and moral decay. In Jeremiah 17:4 , God warns, "You will, even of yourself, let go of your inheritance that I gave you; and I will cause you to serve your enemies in a land you do not know." This passage highlights the spiritual and physical consequences of turning away from God.

4. New Testament Teachings:
In the New Testament, the concept of forfeiture is often related to the loss of eternal life or rewards due to unbelief or unfaithfulness. Jesus speaks of forfeiting one's soul in pursuit of worldly gain: "For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?" (Mark 8:36). This teaching emphasizes the eternal consequences of prioritizing earthly desires over spiritual well-being.

5. Parables and Warnings:
Jesus' parables frequently illustrate the theme of forfeiture. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) warns of the forfeiture of opportunity and reward for the servant who fails to use his master's resources wisely. The unfaithful servant's talent is taken away and given to the one who has ten, symbolizing the loss of potential blessings due to negligence.

Theological Implications:

The concept of forfeiture in the Bible serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience. It underscores the importance of faithfulness, obedience, and the prioritization of spiritual over temporal values. The forfeiture of blessings, inheritance, or life itself is portrayed as a direct result of turning away from God's commandments and failing to uphold the covenant relationship with Him. This theme calls believers to a life of vigilance, stewardship, and commitment to God's will, emphasizing the eternal significance of their choices and actions.

The Folly of Slander. Part 2.
... means, and "maketh lies his refuge," as he renounceth all just and honest means,
as he disclaimeth all hope in God's assistance, and forfeiteth all pretence to ...
/.../barrow/sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/the folly of slander part 2.htm

Forfeiteth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Forfeiteth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 20:2 The terror
of a king is as the roaring of a lion: He that provoketh ...
/f/forfeiteth.htm - 6k

Forfeited (6 Occurrences)

/f/forfeited.htm - 8k

Forfeiting (1 Occurrence)

/f/forfeiting.htm - 6k

Angers (2 Occurrences)
... DBY). Proverbs 20:2 The terror of a king is as the roaring of a lion: he
that provoketh him to anger forfeiteth his life. (See NIV). ...
/a/angers.htm - 6k

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