Leviticus 25:14

If you make a sale to your neighbor or a purchase from him, you must not take advantage of each other.

Study Bible

If you make a sale to your neighbor
In the context of ancient Israel, the term "neighbor" refers to fellow Israelites, emphasizing the communal and covenantal nature of their society. The Israelites were bound by the Mosaic Law, which governed their social, economic, and religious life. This phrase underscores the importance of maintaining just and fair economic practices within the community. The land was considered a divine gift, and transactions were to reflect God's justice and provision. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to love their neighbors as themselves (Matthew 22:39).

or a purchase from him
The economic transactions mentioned here involve buying and selling, which were common in the agrarian society of ancient Israel. The land was a primary asset, and its sale or purchase was regulated by laws that ensured the land remained within the tribal inheritance (Leviticus 25:23-28). This reflects the belief that the land ultimately belonged to God, and the Israelites were merely stewards. The Jubilee year, described earlier in Leviticus 25, served as a reset for economic disparities, ensuring that families could reclaim their ancestral land.

you must not take advantage of each other
This command highlights the ethical standard expected in business dealings. Taking advantage of others, especially in economic transactions, was prohibited. This principle is rooted in the character of God, who is just and righteous. The prohibition against exploitation is a recurring theme in Scripture, seen in passages like Proverbs 11:1, which condemns dishonest scales. In the New Testament, James 5:1-6 warns against the oppression of the poor by the wealthy. This command also foreshadows the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized fairness, justice, and love in all relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The primary audience of Leviticus, the Israelites were God's chosen people, receiving the Law through Moses.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader who received the Law from God and communicated it to the Israelites.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, where these laws were to be practiced.

4. Jubilee Year
A significant event in Israel's calendar occurring every 50 years, emphasizing restoration and fairness in economic dealings.

5. Neighbor
Refers to fellow Israelites, highlighting the community aspect of the law and the importance of fair dealings among God's people.

Teaching Points

Fairness in Transactions
As believers, we are called to conduct our business dealings with integrity and fairness, reflecting God's justice and righteousness.

Community Responsibility
The command to not take advantage of one another emphasizes the importance of community and mutual respect among God's people.

Economic Justice
God's laws promote economic justice, ensuring that wealth and resources are not concentrated in the hands of a few but are distributed fairly.

Reflection of God's Character
Our actions in business and personal dealings should reflect God's character, who is just and fair in all His ways.

Practical Love for Neighbor
Loving our neighbor involves practical actions, including fair and honest dealings, which demonstrate our love and respect for them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of fairness in Leviticus 25:14 apply to modern business practices?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not taking advantage of others in our daily interactions?

3. How does the concept of the Jubilee Year inform our understanding of economic justice today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to reflect God's character in our financial dealings?

5. How can the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament enhance our understanding of loving our neighbor in the context of Leviticus 25:14?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:21-27
This passage emphasizes fair treatment and justice in dealings with others, especially the vulnerable, reinforcing the principle of not taking advantage of others.

Deuteronomy 24:14-15
These verses instruct fair treatment of workers, ensuring they are paid promptly, which aligns with the principle of fairness in transactions.

Proverbs 11:1
This verse speaks against dishonest scales, promoting honesty and integrity in business, similar to the command in Leviticus 25:14.

Matthew 7:12
Known as the Golden Rule, it encourages treating others as one would like to be treated, which underpins the command not to take advantage of others.

James 5:1-6
This passage warns against the exploitation of workers and the accumulation of wealth at the expense of others, echoing the principles of fairness and justice.