Old Testament
Leviticus 25:53
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The buyer must treat them like a worker hired year by year. They must not rule over them harshly while you look on.
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And as a yearly hired servant shall he be with him: and the other shall not rule with rigour over him in thy sight.
What Leviticus 25:53 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Leviticus 25:53, the verse addresses the treatment of hired workers, particularly those who are in a vulnerable position, such as those who have sold themselves into servitude due to debt. The buyer is instructed to treat these individuals as yearly hired workers, meaning they should be treated fairly and with respect, rather than being subjected to harsh treatment. The emphasis is on the buyer's responsibility to ensure that the worker is not oppressed or ruled over with severity. This reflects a broader principle of justice and compassion in the community, highlighting the importance of humane treatment in all labor relations. The verse serves as a reminder that even in economic transactions, ethical considerations must prevail, and the dignity of every individual must be upheld, especially those in less powerful positions. This teaching reinforces the idea that God cares about social justice and the fair treatment of all people, regardless of their circumstances.
How to apply Leviticus 25:53 to your life
In today's context, this verse encourages us to treat employees and workers with respect and fairness. Whether in a workplace or in any service relationship, we should ensure that we do not exploit or mistreat those who work for us. Upholding dignity and compassion in our interactions is essential.
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 25:53 mean?
Leviticus 25:53 instructs that a buyer of a servant must treat them like a yearly hired worker, ensuring they are not treated harshly. This emphasizes the importance of fair treatment and compassion for those in vulnerable positions.
What is the meaning of 'hired worker' in Leviticus 25:53?
In Leviticus 25:53, 'hired worker' refers to someone employed for a specific period, highlighting that even those who have sold themselves into servitude should be treated with respect and fairness, similar to regular employees.
How does Leviticus 25:53 apply today?
Leviticus 25:53 encourages modern employers to treat their employees with dignity and fairness, avoiding exploitation or harsh treatment, which is essential for ethical labor practices.
What themes are present in Leviticus 25:53?
Key themes in Leviticus 25:53 include fair treatment, social justice, compassion, and the dignity of workers, underscoring the need for ethical considerations in labor relations.
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