“And ye shall take them as an inheritance for your children after you, to inherit them for a possession; they shall be your bondmen forever: but over your brethren the children of Israel, ye shall not rule one over another with rigor.”
Context: Leviticus is part of the Torah, specifically the third book of the Old Testament. It contains various laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. Leviticus 25 focuses on the laws of the Sabbath year and the Year of Jubilee.
The concept of bondmen: Leviticus 25:46 addresses the topic of bondmen or slaves. In ancient times, slavery was prevalent, and the Bible provides guidelines for the treatment of slaves within the Israelite community. It’s important to note that the context of slavery in biblical times was different from the transatlantic slave trade or modern forms of slavery.
Inheritance for children: The verse states that the children of Israel were permitted to take slaves as an inheritance for their children. This means that slaves could be passed down from one generation to the next as a possession. However, it’s important to understand that this verse is descriptive of the practices at that time, rather than prescriptive or endorsing slavery.
Distinction from ruling with rigor: While the children of Israel could have slaves as inheritances, they were specifically prohibited from ruling over their fellow Israelites with rigor. This suggests that although there were differences in social status and servitude, the Israelites were instructed to treat their fellow countrymen with fairness and compassion.
Broader biblical principles: While this verse may seem challenging or raise ethical questions, it’s crucial to interpret it within the broader context of the Bible. Principles such as the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12) and the command to love one’s neighbor (Leviticus 19:18) provide a framework for understanding God’s desire for justice, compassion, and the equitable treatment of all people.
New Testament perspective: In the New Testament, Jesus emphasized love, equality, and the dignity of all individuals. He taught that the greatest commandments were to love God and to love one’s neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:37-39). The Apostle Paul also taught that in Christ, there is no distinction between slave and free (Galatians 3:28). These teachings reflect the transformational message of the Gospel.
When studying challenging passages like Leviticus 25:46, it’s essential to seek a balanced understanding by considering the historical context, biblical principles, and the overarching message of love and justice found throughout the Bible. Consulting biblical commentaries, scholars, and engaging in discussions with fellow believers can also provide valuable insights.
