Topical Bible: Servants: Slaves or Bond: Thieves Unable to Make Restitution Were Sold As

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the concept of servitude, particularly in relation to thieves unable to make restitution, is addressed within the legal and social frameworks of ancient Israel. The Mosaic Law provided specific guidelines for dealing with theft and the inability of a thief to repay what was stolen. This entry explores the biblical basis for selling thieves as servants or slaves when they could not make restitution, as well as the broader implications of servitude in the biblical narrative.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural reference for this practice is found in the Book of Exodus. According to Exodus 22:3 , "But if the sun has risen on him, there is guilt for his bloodshed. He must make full restitution; if he has nothing, then he himself shall be sold for his theft." This verse outlines the legal requirement for a thief to make restitution for stolen goods. If the thief lacked the means to repay, the law permitted the sale of the individual into servitude to compensate for the loss.

Purpose and Function

The sale of a thief into servitude served multiple purposes within the Israelite community. Firstly, it acted as a deterrent against theft by imposing a significant consequence for the crime. Secondly, it provided a means of justice and restitution for the victim, ensuring that the loss was addressed even if the thief could not repay directly. Lastly, it offered a structured way for the thief to work off the debt, potentially leading to rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Servitude in the Ancient Near East

The practice of selling individuals into servitude was not unique to Israel but was common in the ancient Near East. However, the Mosaic Law introduced regulations that distinguished Hebrew servitude from the harsher forms of slavery seen in surrounding cultures. For instance, Hebrew servants were to be released in the seventh year, as stated in Exodus 21:2 : "If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free, without paying anything."

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The biblical approach to servitude, particularly in the case of thieves, reflects a balance between justice and mercy. While the law demanded restitution, it also provided a path for the offender to make amends and regain freedom. This reflects the broader biblical themes of justice, repentance, and redemption.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from legal restitution to spiritual redemption. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often uses the imagery of slavery and freedom to describe the believer's relationship with sin and Christ. For example, in Romans 6:18 , Paul writes, "You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness." This spiritual application underscores the transformative power of Christ's redemption, offering freedom from the bondage of sin.

Conclusion

The biblical treatment of thieves unable to make restitution by selling them into servitude highlights the complex interplay of justice, mercy, and redemption within the scriptural narrative. While rooted in the legal practices of ancient Israel, these principles continue to inform Christian ethical considerations and the understanding of servitude and freedom in a spiritual context.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 22:3
If the sun be risen on him, there shall be blood shed for him; for he should make full restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
... recall homewards, leaving but a slight bond of vassalage ... el-Amarna correspondence
of Hittite slaves whom Dushratta ... was accompanied by two discreet servants only ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

The Doctrine
... the law discovered to a people by the servants of Jesus ... which God useth as a special
means to make poor sinners ... that fruit, and so had not been slaves to death ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the doctrine.htm