Goel

/ɡoʊˈɛl/ noun

Definition

In Jewish law and custom, a redeemer or kinsman with the right and duty to redeem property or avenge harm suffered by family members.

Etymology

From Hebrew 'gō'ēl,' meaning 'redeemer' or 'kinsman.' The root 'g-'-l' in Semitic languages relates to redemption and restoration. The term appears throughout the Hebrew Bible and Jewish legal texts, later adopted into English theological discourse.

Kelly Says

The 'goel' system shows how ancient legal systems embedded family responsibility into property and justice—your closest relative had legal obligations to restore your dignity or wealth if you suffered loss!

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