Topical Bible: Domicile: Rights of

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In the biblical context, the concept of domicile, or the rights associated with one's home and dwelling, is deeply rooted in the principles of family, community, and divine order. The Scriptures provide various insights into the rights and responsibilities associated with one's domicile, emphasizing protection, hospitality, and stewardship.

Protection and Sanctity of the Home

The Bible underscores the sanctity and protection of one's home. In the Old Testament, the law given to Israel includes specific commandments that safeguard the home. For instance, Deuteronomy 22:8 instructs, "When you build a new house, you must construct a parapet around your roof, so that you do not bring the guilt of bloodshed upon your house if someone falls from it." This command highlights the responsibility of ensuring safety within one's domicile.

The right to protection is further emphasized in the prohibition against theft and covetousness. Exodus 20:17 states, "You shall not covet your neighbor’s house," which underscores the respect for another's domicile and possessions. The home is seen as a place of refuge and security, a principle that is echoed throughout Scripture.

Hospitality and the Use of the Home

Hospitality is a significant theme in the Bible, reflecting the use of one's home as a place of welcome and service to others. In the New Testament, believers are encouraged to practice hospitality. Romans 12:13 exhorts, "Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality." The home is viewed as a space where God's love and grace can be extended to others, reflecting the character of Christ.

The account of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4:8-10 illustrates the use of one's domicile for hospitality. She provided a room for the prophet Elisha, demonstrating generosity and the blessing that comes from using one's home to serve God's purposes.

Stewardship and Responsibility

The Bible also speaks to the stewardship of one's home and possessions. Proverbs 24:3-4 states, "By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches." This passage highlights the importance of wisdom and understanding in managing one's domicile, suggesting that the home is not only a physical structure but also a place where spiritual and moral values are cultivated.

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30, while not directly about the home, underscores the broader biblical principle of stewardship. Believers are called to manage their resources, including their homes, in a way that honors God and furthers His kingdom.

Legal and Social Implications

In biblical times, the rights associated with one's domicile also had legal and social implications. The cities of refuge, as described in Numbers 35, provided a legal sanctuary for those accused of manslaughter, illustrating the concept of the home as a place of protection and justice.

Moreover, the Jubilee laws in Leviticus 25:10-13 ensured that families could return to their ancestral homes, reflecting God's concern for the restoration and preservation of familial and tribal inheritances. This underscores the importance of the home as a foundational element of social and economic stability.

In summary, the Bible presents a comprehensive view of the rights and responsibilities associated with one's domicile, emphasizing protection, hospitality, stewardship, and justice. These principles reflect the broader biblical themes of community, family, and divine order, guiding believers in the faithful management and use of their homes.

Nave's Topical Index

Deuteronomy 24:10,11
When you do lend your brother any thing, you shall not go into his house to fetch his pledge.
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Library

The Daily Walk with Others (I. ).
... And if, say, three or four young servants of God (by profession) domicile together
and ... They are forbidden by the whole will and rights of their Master to be ...
/.../moule/to my younger brethren/chapter iv the daily walk.htm

Justinian.
... If now and then, under the impulse of passion or despotic humour, he seemed to
disregard its rights, he soon strove again to obtain the Pope's assent to his ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter iv justinian.htm