What does the Bible say about birthright?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that the birthright ordinarily gave the firstborn a place of honor, family leadership, and a double inheritance, yet God remains free to bestow His favor according to His wise purpose. Deuteronomy 21:15-17 protects the firstborn son's lawful inheritance even within difficult family circumstances. Yet Scripture also shows that earthly birth order does not control God's covenant grace: Israel is called God's firstborn in Exodus 4:22, and David is made the highest of kings in Psalm 89:27. These patterns find their fulfillment in Christ, the eternal Son and firstborn over all creation, who brings many sons to glory (Romans 8:29; Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:6).
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- Belonged to the first born Deuteronomy 21:15; Deuteronomy 21:16
- Entitled the firstborn to a double portion of inheritance Deuteronomy 21:15-17
- Royal succession 2 Chronicles 21:3
- An honorable title Exodus 4:22; Psalms 89:27; Jeremiah 31:9; Romans 8:29; Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:6; Hebrews 12:23; Revelation 1:5
- Sold by Esau Genesis 25:29-34; Genesis 27:36; Hebrews 12:16; Romans 9:12; Romans 9:13
- Forfeited by Reuben 1 Chronicles 5:1; 1 Chronicles 5:2
- Set aside
- That of Manasseh Genesis 48:15-20
- Adonijah 1 Kings 2:15
- Hosah’s son 1 Chronicles 26:10
- See FIRSTBORN
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