“Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.”
Leviticus 19:13 addresses several aspects of fair and just treatment in human relationships, specifically focusing on not defrauding one’s neighbour and ensuring timely payment of wages. Let’s break it down further:
Prohibition of Defrauding Neighbors:The verse begins with the command, “Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbor.” This statement emphasises the importance of honesty and integrity in our interactions with others. It is a reminder that God desires His people to live justly and treat one another fairly, showing respect and consideration for their rights and possessions.
Prohibition of Robbing:The verse continues, “neither rob him.” This command further emphasises the need to respect the property and possessions of others. Robbery involves taking something that belongs to someone else forcefully and without their consent. God’s law condemns such actions and emphasises the principle of respecting the rights and belongings of others.
Prompt Payment of Wages:The latter part of the verse states, “the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.” This instruction pertains to the fair treatment of hired workers. It emphasises that when someone is hired to perform a service or work, they should receive their wages promptly, without delay. The employer should not withhold payment or delay giving what is due to the hired worker, as it would create unnecessary hardship for them.
This command demonstrates God’s concern for justice, fairness, and compassion in economic relationships. It highlights the importance of acknowledging and respecting the labour and effort of others by promptly compensating them for their work.
By studying Leviticus 19:13, we learn principles that extend beyond the specific context of ancient Israel. It encourages us to treat others with honesty, fairness, and respect in all our dealings, both in our personal relationships and in the workplace. These principles align with Jesus’ teachings on loving one’s neighbour as oneself and living with integrity before God and others.
