Leviticus 25:47

And if a sojourner or stranger wax rich by thee, and thy brother that dwelleth by him wax poor, and sell himself unto the stranger or sojourner by thee, or to the stock of the stranger’s family:

Leviticus 25:47 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the larger Jubilee legislation in Leviticus 25, which governed the Year of Jubilee, a special time of rest and restoration in the Israelite calendar. The preceding verses instruct the Israelites on how to treat fellow countrymen who become poor and fall into debt. If a fellow Israelite sold himself as a servant to a wealthy Israelite or to a resident foreigner, specific provisions were to be observed.

Meaning

Leviticus 25:47 describes a particular situation: a sojourner or stranger living among the Israelites has grown rich, while an Israelite brother living near him has become poor and sells himself as a servant to that foreigner or to a member of the foreigner’s family. The Hebrew terms translated as “sojourner” and “stranger” refer to a foreigner or temporary resident living in Israel, not a full Israelite citizen. The phrase “wax rich by thee” indicates that the foreigner’s prosperity is connected to his presence among the Israelites, possibly through trade or commerce. The phrase “thy brother that dwelleth by him wax poor” emphasizes that the poor Israelite is a fellow countryman whose poverty is so severe that he sells himself into servitude.

This verse sets up the legal scenario that the following verses address: the right of redemption for the Israelite who has sold himself to a foreigner. The law provides a way for him to be redeemed by a kinsman or by himself if he acquires the means. This reflects God’s concern for the dignity and restoration of His people, ensuring that even in dire economic circumstances, there is a path to freedom and restoration.

Biblical connections

The following verses in Leviticus 25:48-49 detail the redemption provision introduced here. A close relative, such as a brother, uncle, or cousin, has the right to redeem the person by paying the necessary amount to release them from their servitude. This emphasizes the importance of family and the responsibility of caring for one another within the community.

Application

The laws outlined in Leviticus 25 serve as a reminder that God desires justice, fairness, and compassion among His people. They emphasize the importance of caring for the less fortunate, even when it comes to situations of debt and servitude. These regulations were intended to prevent the exploitation and mistreatment of fellow Israelites and to promote a just and equitable society. The broader context of Leviticus 25 emphasizes that the land belongs to God and that Israelites are His servants, so they should not be permanently enslaved. This verse is a crucial part of that theological framework, showing that even when an Israelite falls into poverty and servitude to a foreigner, God provides a mechanism for redemption and restoration.

It is worth noting that the laws and regulations found in Leviticus, including those related to servitude and the Year of Jubilee, were specifically given to the ancient Israelites in their historical and cultural context. As Christians, while we can glean principles of justice, compassion, and caring for others from these passages, the specific regulations themselves do not directly apply to us today.

Reflection

Leviticus 25:47, within the broader context of the Year of Jubilee regulations, emphasizes the importance of treating fellow Israelites with justice and compassion, even in situations of servitude. It highlights the provision for redemption and the responsibility of family members to care for and redeem those who have sold themselves into servitude.