His uncle: this refers to the paternal uncle of the unfortunate Israelite.

His cousin: this is the son of the paternal uncle.

A near kinsman belonging to his family: that is, “another” near kinsman, since the uncle and cousin are obviously near relatives. On the term near kinsman, see 18.6. And on the word family, see 20.5.

If he grows rich: literally “if his hand acquires,” as in verses 26, 28, and 47. It is difficult to see how the Good News Translation rendering can be correct, since a slave was not able to “earn” money. Does the text presuppose some kind of unforeseen inheritance or fortunate discovery of unknown wealth? Probably a more general expression like “if he acquires the means” (New American Bible) is more suitable here.

Redeem himself: or “pay for his own release (or, freedom).” Compare verse 25 above.

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René and Ellington, John. A Handbook on Leviticus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1990. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .