Leviticus 25:46

Amharic Bible (መጽሐፍ ቅዱስ (የብሉይና የሐዲስ ኪዳን መጻሕፍት))

ከእናንተም በኋላ ልጆቻችሁ ይወርሱአቸው ዘንድ ተዉአቸው፤ ከእነርሱም ባሪያዎችን ለዘላለም ትወስዳላችሁ፤ ነገር ግን የእስራኤልን ልጆች ወንድሞቻችሁን በጽኑ እጅ አትግዙአቸው።

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Leviticus allows the Israelites to have foreign servants permanently, but warns them not to treat their Israelite brothers harshly. It emphasizes the difference in how they should treat those outside their community versus those within it.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a lemonade stand and you can keep it forever, but you can't be mean to your friends who also have lemonade stands. This verse is like that, but about helping people and not being too strict with your own family.

Historical Background

The book of Leviticus was written by Moses around 1400 BC. It was given to the Israelites as part of their covenant with God, outlining laws and practices, including how to treat foreigners and fellow Israelites.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse reminds us to treat all people with respect, but to be especially kind and understanding to those who share our values and beliefs, like family and friends. It's a call to remember the importance of community and fairness.

Topics

• justice
• community
• equality
• respect
• freedom
• servanthood

Related Verses

• Exodus 21:2-6
• Deuteronomy 15:12-15
• 1 Timothy 6:1-2
• Ephesians 6:9
• Colossians 4:1

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this verse allow for permanent servants?

This was a practical aspect of ancient societies, but the verse also emphasizes the importance of treating servants well and not exploiting them.

What does it mean not to rule 'one over another with rigor'?

It means Israelites should not be harsh or cruel to other Israelites, emphasizing a community where there is mutual respect and fair treatment.

How does this verse relate to modern views on equality?

While the verse reflects the societal norms of its time, it also contains principles of fairness and respect that are relevant today, calling for just treatment of others.

What can we learn from this verse about community?

This verse teaches us the importance of treating those within our community with kindness and respect, reinforcing the idea of unity and mutual support.