A father was owed a debt when he died. Does the firstborn get a double share of this debt?
A debt is 'fit to come' but not yet in possession. The firstborn only receives a double portion of assets the father actually possessed at death, as derived from 'of everything that he possesses.'
Question 2
A cow in the father's herd gives birth after the father's death. Does the firstborn get a double share of the calf?
The father possessed the cow. The calf is an offshoot of a possessed asset, so the firstborn receives a double share of both the cow and the calf.
Question 3
The estate includes grain that was budding when the father died and became full ears after his death. Does the firstborn get a double share of the increase?
When property changes form (budding grain to full ears), the appreciation is treated as new property. The firstborn must compensate the brothers for the difference and does not receive the double portion on it.
Question 4
A brother performs yibbum and marries the widow. What happens to future property that was 'fit to come' into the deceased's estate?
The yavam inherits all possessed property of the deceased. But for property that was yet to come, he is treated like any of the other brothers — no special priority.
Question 5
A firstborn divides a portion of the estate equally with his brothers without saying anything. What is the legal effect?
Silent equal division is treated as a waiver of his firstborn rights across the entire estate — unless he explicitly protested beforehand in the presence of two witnesses.