Old Testament
Leviticus 25:46
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You may pass them down as an inheritance to your children, and they may serve as slaves permanently. But you must never rule harshly over your fellow Israelites.
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And ye shall take them as an inheritance for your children after you, to inherit them for a possession; they shall be your bondmen for ever: but over your brethren the children of Israel, ye shall not rule one over another with rigour.
What Leviticus 25:46 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 25:46, God provides guidelines for the treatment of slaves and the inheritance of property. The verse states that Israelites can pass down slaves as an inheritance to their children, meaning that these individuals would serve their masters indefinitely. However, it emphasizes the importance of treating fellow Israelites with kindness and fairness, prohibiting harsh treatment or oppression. This reflects a broader principle in the Hebrew Scriptures about the dignity of every person, especially those within the community of faith. The verse highlights the balance between ownership and ethical responsibility, reminding the Israelites that their relationships should be characterized by compassion rather than exploitation. This instruction serves as a reminder that even in systems of servitude, there are moral obligations to uphold the well-being of others, particularly those who are vulnerable or in a subordinate position.
How to apply Leviticus 25:46 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on how we treat those who work for us or depend on us. It reminds us to act with kindness and fairness, ensuring that our relationships are built on respect and compassion, rather than exploitation or harshness.
Curated for this public verse page. Leviticus Summary
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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 25:46 mean?
Leviticus 25:46 outlines the rules regarding the inheritance of slaves among the Israelites, stating that they can be passed down to children as permanent servants. However, it also emphasizes the need for fair treatment of fellow Israelites, prohibiting harsh treatment.
What is the meaning of 'bondmen for ever' in Leviticus 25:46?
The phrase 'bondmen for ever' refers to the practice of allowing Israelites to own slaves as a permanent inheritance. This indicates that these individuals would serve their masters indefinitely, but it comes with the responsibility to treat them ethically.
How does Leviticus 25:46 relate to community responsibility?
Leviticus 25:46 emphasizes community responsibility by instructing Israelites to treat one another with kindness, even in systems of servitude. It reminds them that their relationships should reflect compassion rather than exploitation.
What principles can we learn from Leviticus 25:46?
From Leviticus 25:46, we learn the importance of ethical treatment and compassion in relationships, especially towards those who are vulnerable. It encourages us to act with fairness and respect in all interactions.
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