Old Testament
Leviticus 25:47
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"Suppose a foreigner or temporary resident among you becomes wealthy, while one of your people living nearby becomes poor and sells themselves to that foreigner, or to a member of the foreigner's family.
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And if a sojourner or stranger wax rich by thee, and thy brother that dwelleth by him wax poor, and sell himself unto the stranger or sojourner by thee, or to the stock of the stranger’s family:
What Leviticus 25:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse addresses a situation where a foreigner or temporary resident becomes wealthy while a fellow Israelite falls into poverty. In such cases, the poor Israelite may sell themselves into servitude to the foreigner or their family. This reflects the economic realities of the time, where individuals sometimes had to make difficult choices for survival. The law acknowledges the vulnerability of the poor and the potential exploitation by wealthier foreigners. It highlights the importance of community support and the need for Israelites to care for one another, ensuring that no one is left destitute. The verse serves as a reminder of the social responsibilities that come with wealth and the need for compassion towards those in need, emphasizing the value of maintaining justice and equity within the community.
How to apply Leviticus 25:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to be aware of economic disparities in our communities. We should strive to support those who are struggling, ensuring that we do not exploit their vulnerabilities. By fostering a spirit of generosity and compassion, we can help create a more equitable society.
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 25:47 teach about wealth and poverty?
Leviticus 25:47 highlights the contrast between the wealth of a foreigner and the poverty of an Israelite. It illustrates the economic struggles faced by individuals and the difficult choices they may have to make, such as selling themselves into servitude. The verse emphasizes the need for community support and compassion towards those in need, reminding us of our social responsibilities.
How can we apply Leviticus 25:47 in modern society?
In today's context, Leviticus 25:47 encourages us to recognize and address economic disparities within our communities. It calls for us to support those who are struggling financially, ensuring that we do not take advantage of their vulnerabilities. By promoting generosity and compassion, we can work towards creating a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
What does the term 'foreigner' mean in Leviticus 25:47?
In Leviticus 25:47, 'foreigner' refers to someone who is not an Israelite, such as a temporary resident or sojourner living among the Israelites. This term highlights the presence of diverse populations within the community and the economic interactions that can occur between them, particularly in situations of wealth disparity.
Why is servitude mentioned in Leviticus 25:47?
Servitude in Leviticus 25:47 reflects the harsh economic realities of the time, where individuals might sell themselves into servitude to survive. This practice underscores the vulnerability of the poor and the potential for exploitation by wealthier individuals, emphasizing the importance of community care and justice.
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