Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the concept of "selling" is often associated with transactions, exchanges, and the moral implications of such actions. The act of selling is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, reflecting both literal and metaphorical meanings.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, selling is frequently mentioned in the context of trade and commerce, which were integral to the ancient Near Eastern economy. For example, in Genesis 25:33, Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a meal, illustrating a momentous decision with lasting consequences: "But Jacob said, 'Swear to me first.' So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob" . This transaction highlights the spiritual and familial implications of selling something of great value for immediate gratification. The Mosaic Law also addresses the concept of selling, particularly in relation to property and servitude. Leviticus 25:23-24 states, "The land must not be sold permanently, because it is Mine, and you are but foreigners and sojourners with Me. Thus for every piece of property you possess, you must provide for the redemption of the land" . This underscores the belief that the land ultimately belongs to God, and any sale should consider the provision for redemption, reflecting a divine order and care for the community. New Testament Context In the New Testament, selling is often discussed in the context of wealth and discipleship. Jesus addresses the moral and spiritual dimensions of selling and wealth in several passages. In Matthew 19:21, Jesus advises the rich young ruler, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me" . This directive emphasizes the call to prioritize spiritual wealth over material possessions and to follow Christ wholeheartedly. The early Christian community also practiced the selling of possessions for communal benefit, as seen in Acts 4:34-35: "There were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, and lay them at the apostles’ feet for distribution to anyone as he had need" . This practice reflects the early church's commitment to mutual support and the sharing of resources. Metaphorical and Spiritual Implications Beyond literal transactions, the Bible uses the concept of selling metaphorically to convey spiritual truths. In Revelation 3:18, Jesus counsels the church in Laodicea, "I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich; white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed; and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see" . Here, the act of buying and selling is used to illustrate the acquisition of spiritual riches and insight, contrasting worldly wealth with eternal values. The Bible also warns against the selling of one's integrity or soul for worldly gain. In Matthew 16:26, Jesus poses the rhetorical question, "What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?" . This underscores the eternal significance of one's spiritual state over temporal success or possessions. Conclusion The concept of selling in the Bible encompasses a range of meanings, from practical economic transactions to profound spiritual lessons. It serves as a reminder of the values and priorities that should guide believers in their interactions and decisions, emphasizing the importance of integrity, community, and eternal perspective. Greek 4453. poleo -- to exchange or barter, to sell ... Word Origin a prim. word Definition to exchange or barter, to sell NASB Word Usage dealers (1), sell (7), selling (8), sells (1), sold (5). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4453.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 4376. makar -- to sell... Word Usage certainly sell (1), destruction (1), make (1), merchants (1), offer yourselves for sale (1), sell (23), seller (3), selling (1), sells (8), sold (40 ... /hebrew/4376.htm - 6k 7666. shabar -- to buy grain Library Sells Out at Alexandria. Moves to Crittenden. Preaches There and ... Organizes a Church at Deland. Health Improves. Relapses. Starts ... Whether, in Trading, it is Lawful to Sell a Thing at a Higher ... Autobiography of Frank G. Allen, Minister of the Gospel The Field and the Treasure Interpreted. Of the Places of Burial. Talking in Salesmanship Whether the Seller is Bound to State the Defects of the Thing Sold ... John Chapter ii. 21-Dec Of Removing Tithes. Thesaurus Sells (14 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Sells (14 Occurrences). ... In his joy, he goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field. (WEB WEY DBY NAS RSV). ... /s/sells.htm - 10k Sell (58 Occurrences) Sold (92 Occurrences) Redeem (56 Occurrences) Countrymen (60 Occurrences) Countryman (19 Occurrences) Grown (77 Occurrences) Selvedge (2 Occurrences) Selling (23 Occurrences) Becomes (138 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Prodigal Son? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about restitution? | GotQuestions.org Should a Christian work where alcohol and tobacco are sold? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sells (14 Occurrences)Matthew 13:44 Exodus 21:7 Exodus 21:16 Exodus 22:1 Leviticus 25:25 Leviticus 25:29 Leviticus 25:39 Leviticus 25:47 Deuteronomy 15:12 Deuteronomy 24:7 Ruth 4:3 Proverbs 11:26 Proverbs 31:24 Nahum 3:4 Subtopics Related Terms |