Meaning
A kinsman is a relative or person connected to another through family or close kinship.
Biblical Usage
The Bible uses kinsman for people connected by family relationship. Kinship could carry practical responsibilities concerning property, inheritance, marriage, redemption, and protection.
The concept is especially prominent in the laws concerning redemption of family property and in the book of Ruth, where a near kinsman could act in matters involving family inheritance and marriage.
Key References
- Leviticus 25:25
- Leviticus 25:48-49
- Numbers 27:8-11
- Ruth 2:20
- Ruth 3:9-13
- Ruth 4:1-10
- Job 19:14
- Proverbs 17:17
- Luke 1:58-61
- Romans 9:3
Related Terms
- Kindred
- Brother
- Relative
- Redeemer
- Inheritance