Leviticus 25:50

He and his purchaser will then count the time from the year he sold himself up to the Year of Jubilee. The price of his sale will be determined by the number of years, based on the daily wages of a hired hand.

Study Bible

He and his buyer
This phrase indicates a mutual responsibility between the servant and the one who has purchased his service. In the Hebrew context, the word for "buyer" (קֹנֵה, qoneh) implies a transaction that is more than mere ownership; it suggests a relationship that involves care and provision. This reflects the biblical principle that even in servitude, there is a dignity and respect that must be maintained, as both parties are ultimately accountable to God.

are to count the time
The act of counting time here is significant in the Hebrew tradition, where time is often seen as a divine gift. The Hebrew word for "count" (חָשַׁב, chashav) can also mean to consider or to reckon, suggesting a thoughtful and deliberate process. This counting is not merely a mechanical calculation but a recognition of the servant's humanity and the anticipation of the Year of Jubilee, a time of liberation and restoration.

from the year he sold himself
This phrase acknowledges the servant's initial decision or necessity to enter into servitude. The Hebrew culture recognized that economic hardship could lead to such situations, but it also provided a framework for eventual redemption. The act of selling oneself (מָכַר, makar) was not intended to be permanent, reflecting God's desire for freedom and restoration for His people.

up to the Year of Jubilee
The Year of Jubilee (יֹבֵל, yovel) is a profound concept in the Hebrew Scriptures, representing a time of release and return. Every fiftieth year, debts were forgiven, and land was returned to its original owners. This was a divine reset, emphasizing God's sovereignty over time and property. It served as a reminder of God's provision and the ultimate freedom He offers.

The price of his sale
This phrase refers to the valuation of the servant's labor. In Hebrew law, this was not arbitrary but was to be fair and just, reflecting the value of the work done. The word for "price" (מְחִיר, mekhir) underscores the importance of justice and equity in economic transactions, aligning with the biblical principle that all people are created in the image of God and deserve fair treatment.

shall be based on the number of years
This indicates a proportional valuation, ensuring that the servant is not exploited. The Hebrew understanding of time and labor was deeply connected to justice. The phrase suggests a system where the servant's contribution is recognized and valued appropriately, reflecting God's justice and care for His people.

according to the rate paid to a hired worker
This comparison to a hired worker (שָׂכִיר, sakir) highlights the dignity and rights of the servant. In ancient Israel, a hired worker was entitled to fair wages and humane treatment. By equating the servant's valuation to that of a hired worker, the scripture emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals with respect and fairness, regardless of their economic status. This reflects the biblical call to love one's neighbor and to act justly in all dealings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelite Servant
An individual who has sold himself due to poverty and is now working to repay his debt.

2. The Buyer
The person who has purchased the services of the Israelite servant, essentially acting as a master until the debt is repaid or the Year of Jubilee arrives.

3. The Year of Jubilee
A significant event occurring every 50 years in Israel, where liberty is proclaimed throughout the land, and individuals return to their family property and clan.

4. The Land of Israel
The setting where these laws are given and intended to be practiced, emphasizing the importance of community and family.

5. Moses
The prophet through whom God delivered the laws of Leviticus to the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Justice and Mercy
The Year of Jubilee reflects God's heart for justice and mercy, ensuring that no one remains in perpetual servitude and that families can reclaim their inheritance.

The Value of Human Dignity
The regulation of servitude and the calculation of fair wages underscore the value God places on human dignity and fair treatment.

The Principle of Rest and Restoration
The Jubilee serves as a reminder of the importance of rest and restoration, not just for the land but for individuals and families, pointing to spiritual rest in Christ.

Financial Stewardship and Responsibility
The counting of years and fair payment encourages responsible financial practices and the importance of planning and accountability.

Anticipation of Ultimate Redemption
The Year of Jubilee foreshadows the ultimate redemption and freedom found in Christ, encouraging believers to live in the hope of eternal restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Year of Jubilee challenge our modern understanding of debt and servitude?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of justice and mercy from Leviticus 25:50 in our daily interactions with others?

3. How does the Year of Jubilee reflect God's character, and how can we emulate these attributes in our communities?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure fair treatment and dignity for those who work for us or with us?

5. How does the anticipation of the Year of Jubilee enhance our understanding of Christ's mission and the hope of eternal redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-6
Discusses the laws regarding Hebrew servants and their release in the seventh year, providing a parallel to the concept of release in the Year of Jubilee.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Offers additional instructions on the treatment and release of Hebrew servants, emphasizing compassion and fairness.

Isaiah 61:1-2
Prophesies the coming of the Messiah who will proclaim liberty to captives, echoing the themes of freedom and restoration found in the Year of Jubilee.

Luke 4:18-19
Jesus reads from Isaiah, declaring the fulfillment of the prophecy, connecting His mission to the principles of the Jubilee.