Leviticus 25:39

If a countryman among you becomes destitute and sells himself to you, then you must not force him into slave labor.

Study Bible

If your brother
The term "brother" here is significant, emphasizing the familial and communal relationship among the Israelites. In Hebrew, the word is "אָח" (ach), which denotes not just a biological sibling but also a fellow member of the covenant community. This highlights the importance of viewing fellow Israelites as family, fostering a sense of unity and mutual responsibility. The use of "brother" underscores the call to treat each other with dignity and respect, reflecting the broader biblical principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself.

among you
This phrase situates the command within the community of Israel. It implies a shared identity and collective responsibility. The Hebrew word "בְּתוֹכְכֶם" (betokhem) suggests an intimate, internal relationship, reinforcing the idea that the Israelites are a distinct people set apart by God. This communal aspect is crucial, as it reminds the Israelites that their actions affect the entire community, and they are accountable to one another under God's covenant.

becomes destitute
The Hebrew word used here is "יָמוּךְ" (yamukh), meaning to become poor or impoverished. This condition is not merely economic but can also imply a loss of social standing or security. The verse acknowledges the reality of economic hardship and the potential for any member of the community to fall into poverty. It calls for compassion and support, reflecting God's concern for the vulnerable and marginalized.

and sells himself to you
This phrase refers to a voluntary act of servitude due to financial desperation. In ancient Israel, selling oneself was a means of survival, a way to pay off debts or secure basic needs. The Hebrew context here is "וְנִמְכַּר־לָךְ" (venimkar-lakh), indicating a transaction that is more about survival than servitude. It is crucial to understand this within the framework of the Jubilee laws, which provided mechanisms for debt relief and the restoration of property and freedom.

you must not force him
The command here is a prohibition against treating a fellow Israelite harshly. The Hebrew "לֹא־תַעֲבֹד" (lo-ta'avod) implies a moral and ethical obligation to treat others with kindness and fairness. This reflects God's character and His desire for justice and mercy within His people. It is a call to exercise authority with compassion, recognizing the inherent dignity of every person.

to serve as a slave
The term "slave" in Hebrew is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which can mean both servant and slave. The distinction here is critical; while servitude was a reality in ancient times, the Israelites were commanded to treat their fellow countrymen with respect and not as property. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of liberation and redemption, reminding the Israelites of their own deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It is a call to embody God's justice and mercy, ensuring that even in servitude, there is dignity and hope for restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The primary audience of the Levitical laws, including the instructions in Leviticus 25, which were given to guide their community life and ensure justice and compassion.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws to the Israelites, including the instructions found in Leviticus.

3. Jubilee Year
A significant event in Israelite society, occurring every 50 years, when slaves were to be freed, debts forgiven, and land returned to original owners, providing context for the laws in Leviticus 25.

Teaching Points

Compassionate Treatment
The law in Leviticus 25:39 emphasizes the importance of treating those in need with dignity and respect, reflecting God's compassion and justice.

Value of Human Dignity
The prohibition against forcing a destitute brother into slave labor underscores the inherent value and dignity of every person, created in the image of God.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites were called to care for their fellow community members, highlighting the importance of mutual support and responsibility within the body of Christ today.

Freedom and Restoration
The principles of the Jubilee year, including the release of servants, point to God's desire for freedom and restoration, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

Practical Generosity
Believers are encouraged to practice generosity and kindness, reflecting God's provision and care for His people, as seen in the laws given to Israel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction in Leviticus 25:39 reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of treating others with dignity and respect in our modern context?

3. How does the concept of the Jubilee year inform our understanding of freedom and restoration in Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can support and care for those in need within our communities, reflecting the spirit of Leviticus 25:39?

5. How do the teachings in Leviticus 25:39 connect with New Testament instructions on serving one another in love, as seen in Galatians 5:13?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-6
Discusses the treatment of Hebrew servants, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment and the provision for freedom after six years of service.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Reinforces the concept of releasing Hebrew servants and treating them with generosity, reflecting God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt.

Galatians 5:13
Encourages believers to use their freedom to serve one another in love, connecting the spirit of the law in Leviticus to New Testament teachings on Christian liberty and service.