What is the meaning of Leviticus 25:40? Let him stay with you God instructs that an Israelite who has sold himself because of poverty is not to be cast out or treated as property. He “stays” within the covenant community. This echoes earlier commands: “If a stranger dwells with you in your land, you shall not mistreat him” (Leviticus 19:33-34). By keeping the indebted brother close, the family circle remains intact, anticipating future restoration (cf. Deuteronomy 15:7-8). Key take-aways • Staying “with you” preserves dignity and fellowship. • The command protects against isolation or exploitation (see Exodus 22:25). as a hired worker or temporary resident Rather than lifelong slavery, the relationship is contractual and time-bound—like that of a wage-earner (compare Deuteronomy 24:14-15). The phrase underscores: • Fair pay and humane treatment: “You shall not oppress a hired servant” (Deuteronomy 24:14). • Equal value before God; even the sojourner gleaning in Ruth 2:10 experienced kindness under this model. • Accountability: harsh masters are warned in Leviticus 25:53 that the hired man may appeal to God for justice. he is to work for you Work is honorable, not punitive. Paul later echoes this principle: “Masters, grant your slaves what is just and fair” (Colossians 4:1). In practice: • The debtor gains provision and skill while repaying what he owes (Exodus 21:2). • The master gains labor yet must model servant-leadership (Ephesians 6:9). • Both parties remember they ultimately serve the Lord (Leviticus 25:55). until the Year of Jubilee Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10) is the built-in divine reset. At its sounding: • Debts are canceled, land returns to original families (Leviticus 27:24). • Captives go free, foreshadowing “the year of the LORD’s favor” proclaimed by Isaiah 61:2 and fulfilled in Jesus (Luke 4:18-19). • Hope governs every contract; no one is locked into hopelessness. summary Leviticus 25:40 safeguards a poor Israelite by turning potential slavery into a temporary, paid arrangement anchored in community and capped by Jubilee freedom. The verse calls God’s people to treat debtors with dignity, ensure fair labor, and live in hopeful anticipation of divine restoration—a pattern fulfilled and magnified in Christ, who proclaims ultimate Jubilee for all who belong to Him. |
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