Old Testament
Leviticus 25:39
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"If one of your people becomes so poor that they sell themselves to you, don't make them work as a slave.
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And if thy brother that dwelleth by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant:
What Leviticus 25:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 25:39, God instructs the Israelites on how to treat their fellow countrymen who fall into poverty. If a person becomes so destitute that they have to sell themselves for survival, they should not be treated as a slave. Instead, they are to be treated with dignity and respect, as a hired worker. This reflects God's concern for the welfare of His people and emphasizes the importance of compassion and justice in community life. The verse highlights the idea that even in dire circumstances, individuals retain their humanity and should not be subjected to harsh treatment. The underlying principle is to ensure that economic hardship does not lead to exploitation or dehumanization. This commandment serves as a reminder to the Israelites to care for one another and to uphold the values of kindness and fairness, especially towards those who are vulnerable.
How to apply Leviticus 25:39 to your life
This verse encourages us to treat those in need with kindness and respect, especially when they are vulnerable. It reminds us to avoid exploiting others in difficult situations and to support one another in our communities, fostering a spirit of compassion and care.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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Keep studying Leviticus 25:39
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At a Glance — the Book of Leviticus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Leviticus 25:39 mean?
Leviticus 25:39 instructs the Israelites to treat fellow countrymen who fall into poverty with dignity, rather than as slaves. It emphasizes compassion and justice, ensuring that those in need are not exploited.
What is the meaning of 'sell themselves' in Leviticus 25:39?
In Leviticus 25:39, 'sell themselves' refers to individuals who, due to extreme poverty, offer their labor to others for survival. This situation highlights the need for humane treatment rather than exploitation.
How does Leviticus 25:39 apply today?
Leviticus 25:39 encourages modern readers to treat those in need with respect and compassion, avoiding exploitation. It serves as a reminder to support vulnerable individuals in our communities.
What themes are present in Leviticus 25:39?
Key themes in Leviticus 25:39 include compassion, justice, community support, and the dignity of individuals facing economic hardship. The verse highlights the importance of treating others fairly.
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