Leviticus 25:45

You may also purchase them from the foreigners residing among you or their clans living among you who are born in your land. These may become your property.

Study Bible

You may also purchase them
The phrase "You may also purchase them" refers to the practice of acquiring servants or slaves, which was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Hebrew word for "purchase" is "קָנָה" (qanah), which means to acquire or buy. This reflects the economic and social structures of the time, where servitude was often a means of survival for the impoverished. In the context of Leviticus, this regulation is part of a broader legal framework that includes provisions for the humane treatment of servants and the eventual release of Hebrew slaves during the Year of Jubilee.

from the foreigners residing among you
The term "foreigners" is translated from the Hebrew word "גֵּרִים" (gerim), which refers to non-Israelites living within the Israelite community. These individuals were often sojourners or temporary residents who did not possess the same rights as native-born Israelites. The inclusion of foreigners in this verse highlights the diverse composition of the ancient Israelite society and the interactions between different ethnic and cultural groups. It also underscores the importance of treating all individuals with dignity, as other parts of the Mosaic Law emphasize fair treatment of foreigners.

or from their clans living among you
The phrase "or from their clans living among you" suggests that these foreigners were not isolated individuals but part of larger family groups or communities. The Hebrew word for "clans" is "מִשְׁפָּחוֹת" (mishpachot), which denotes extended family units. This indicates that the social fabric of ancient Israel included various family networks, both native and foreign, living in close proximity. The presence of these clans within Israelite territory reflects the interconnectedness of ancient societies and the necessity of laws to govern such interactions.

who are born in your land
The phrase "who are born in your land" refers to the children of these foreign residents who were born within the borders of Israel. This highlights the generational aspect of foreign communities living among the Israelites. The Hebrew word "יְלִידֵי" (yelidei) means "born" and emphasizes the idea of belonging to the land by birth. This aspect of the verse points to the complexity of identity and belonging in ancient Israel, where birth in the land did not automatically confer the same status as being an Israelite by descent.

These may become your property
The phrase "These may become your property" addresses the legal status of these individuals within the Israelite community. The Hebrew word for "property" is "אֲחֻזָּה" (achuzzah), which can mean possession or inheritance. This reflects the legal and economic realities of the time, where individuals could become part of a household's assets. However, it is crucial to understand this within the broader biblical context, which includes numerous laws aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of servants, such as the prohibition against harsh treatment and the provision for eventual freedom during the Jubilee year. This verse, therefore, must be read in light of the overarching biblical principles of justice, mercy, and the inherent value of every human being created in the image of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given.

2. Foreigners (Gerim)
Non-Israelites residing among the Israelites, often referred to as "sojourners" or "aliens" in the land.

3. Canaan
The Promised Land where the Israelites settled, and where these laws were to be practiced.

4. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws to the Israelites.

5. Jubilee Year
A significant event in Israelite society, occurring every 50 years, where liberty was proclaimed throughout the land.

Teaching Points

Understanding Cultural Context
Recognize the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, where slavery was a common practice, but regulated by God's laws to ensure humane treatment.

God's Sovereignty and Ownership
Acknowledge that ultimately, all people belong to God, and any ownership is temporary and subject to His laws and justice.

Compassion and Justice
Reflect on the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect, as God's laws intended to protect the vulnerable.

Spiritual Freedom in Christ
Consider how the principles of Jubilee and release from bondage foreshadow the spiritual freedom offered through Jesus Christ.

Ethical Treatment of Workers
Apply the principles of fair treatment and justice in modern contexts, such as employment and social justice issues.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the cultural context of Leviticus 25:45 help us interpret its meaning for today?

2. In what ways does the concept of Jubilee reflect God's desire for justice and mercy?

3. How can the principles found in Leviticus 25:45 guide our interactions with people from different cultural or social backgrounds?

4. What are some modern-day applications of the biblical principles of fair treatment and justice in the workplace?

5. How does the New Testament teaching on unity in Christ challenge or complement the Old Testament laws regarding foreigners and servants?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21
Discusses laws regarding Hebrew servants, providing context for the treatment of servants and slaves.

Deuteronomy 15
Expands on the release of Hebrew slaves and the treatment of the poor, emphasizing compassion and justice.

Galatians 3
Paul speaks about the unity of all believers in Christ, transcending ethnic and social boundaries.

Ephesians 6
Offers guidance on the relationship between masters and servants, urging fairness and mutual respect.