Goel (Hebrew: גואל, romanized: goʾel, lit. 'redeemer'), in the Hebrew Bible and rabbinic Judaism, is a person who, as the nearest relative of someone, is charged with the duty of restoring that person's rights and avenging wrongs done to him or her. One duty of the goel was to redeem (purchase back) a relative who had been sold into slavery.
Conclusion The concept of the Goel is a testament to the intricate social laws of ancient Israel and serves as a powerful symbol of redemption and justice. Through the lens of the Goel, one can gain a deeper understanding of the biblical themes of kinship, redemption, and divine justice, which resonate throughout the Scriptures.
The psalmist calls God his Goel and strength (Ps 19:14). Note also Psalms 78:35; 103:4. The Book of Proverbs calls God the Goel of the poor orphan (Prov 23:11). It is Isaiah who most elaborately develops the concept of God as Goel. He uses the term in reference to God thirteen times.
Discover the meaning of Goel in the Bible. Study the definition of Goel with multiple Bible Dictionaries and Encyclopedias and find scripture references in the Old and New Testaments.
The meaning of GOEL is redeemer, reclaimant; especially : a next of kin upon whom according to ancient Hebrew custom devolved certain family rights and duties including the avenging of a murdered kin's blood and the redemption of the person or property of a relative in debt or helpless circumstances.
In ancient texts, the goel is depicted as a person who takes on responsibilities that extend beyond mere economic transactions. This role was deeply embedded in the cultural and legal frameworks of the time, reflecting a society where kinship bonds were paramount. The goel’s duties were not limited to financial redemption; they also included ensuring the well-being and continuity of the ...