The Definition of the word First-born, Sanctification of the

First-born, Sanctification of the

A peculiar sanctity was attached to the first-born both of man and of cattle. God claimed that the first-born males of man and "of animals should be consecrated to him, the one as a priest" "(Ex. 19:22, 24), representing the family to which he belonged," and the other to be offered up in sacrifice (Gen. 4:4).