Leviticus 25:14

If you make a sale to your neighbor or a purchase from him, you must not take advantage of each other.

Study Bible

If you make a sale
The phrase "If you make a sale" introduces the concept of commerce and trade among the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "sale" is מָכַר (makar), which implies a transaction or exchange. In the ancient Near Eastern context, trade was a vital part of daily life, and the Israelites were no exception. This phrase sets the stage for ethical business practices, emphasizing that even in commerce, one's actions should reflect God's righteousness and justice.

to your neighbor
The term "neighbor" in Hebrew is רֵעַ (rea), which can mean a friend, companion, or fellow citizen. This word underscores the communal nature of Israelite society, where relationships were built on mutual respect and care. The use of "neighbor" highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and fairness in dealings with those within one's community, reflecting the broader biblical principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself (Leviticus 19:18).

or buy from your neighbor
This phrase complements the previous one, covering both sides of a transaction—selling and buying. The Hebrew word for "buy" is קָנָה (qanah), which means to acquire or purchase. The inclusion of both buying and selling indicates that ethical standards apply universally in commerce, regardless of one's role in the transaction. It calls for a balanced and fair approach, ensuring that neither party is disadvantaged.

you must not take advantage
The command "you must not take advantage" is a direct prohibition against exploitation. The Hebrew verb עָשַׁק (ashaq) means to oppress or exploit. This directive is rooted in the character of God, who is just and compassionate. It serves as a reminder that God's people are to reflect His nature in their interactions, ensuring that business practices do not harm or exploit others, especially the vulnerable.

of one another
The phrase "of one another" reinforces the mutual responsibility within the community. It implies a reciprocal relationship where each person is accountable to the other. This concept is foundational in the covenant community of Israel, where social justice and equity are paramount. It calls believers to a higher standard of conduct, where the well-being of others is prioritized, reflecting the love and justice of God in every aspect of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The primary audience of Leviticus, the Israelites were God's chosen people, receiving the Law through Moses.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader who received the Law from God and communicated it to the Israelites.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, where these laws were to be practiced.

4. Jubilee Year
A significant event in Israel's calendar occurring every 50 years, emphasizing restoration and fairness in economic dealings.

5. Neighbor
Refers to fellow Israelites, highlighting the community aspect of the law and the importance of fair dealings among God's people.

Teaching Points

Fairness in Transactions
As believers, we are called to conduct our business dealings with integrity and fairness, reflecting God's justice and righteousness.

Community Responsibility
The command to not take advantage of one another emphasizes the importance of community and mutual respect among God's people.

Economic Justice
God's laws promote economic justice, ensuring that wealth and resources are not concentrated in the hands of a few but are distributed fairly.

Reflection of God's Character
Our actions in business and personal dealings should reflect God's character, who is just and fair in all His ways.

Practical Love for Neighbor
Loving our neighbor involves practical actions, including fair and honest dealings, which demonstrate our love and respect for them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of fairness in Leviticus 25:14 apply to modern business practices?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not taking advantage of others in our daily interactions?

3. How does the concept of the Jubilee Year inform our understanding of economic justice today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to reflect God's character in our financial dealings?

5. How can the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament enhance our understanding of loving our neighbor in the context of Leviticus 25:14?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:21-27
This passage emphasizes fair treatment and justice in dealings with others, especially the vulnerable, reinforcing the principle of not taking advantage of others.

Deuteronomy 24:14-15
These verses instruct fair treatment of workers, ensuring they are paid promptly, which aligns with the principle of fairness in transactions.

Proverbs 11:1
This verse speaks against dishonest scales, promoting honesty and integrity in business, similar to the command in Leviticus 25:14.

Matthew 7:12
Known as the Golden Rule, it encourages treating others as one would like to be treated, which underpins the command not to take advantage of others.

James 5:1-6
This passage warns against the exploitation of workers and the accumulation of wealth at the expense of others, echoing the principles of fairness and justice.