King James Version
What Does Leviticus 25:40 Mean?
“But as an hired servant, and as a sojourner, he shall be with thee, and shall serve thee unto the year of jubile:”
Context
38
I am the LORD your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, to give you the land of Canaan, and to be your God.
39
And if thy brother that dwelleth by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant: compel: Heb. serve thyself with him with the service, etc
40
But as an hired servant, and as a sojourner, he shall be with thee, and shall serve thee unto the year of jubile:
41
And then shall he depart from thee, both he and his children with him, and shall return unto his own family, and unto the possession of his fathers shall he return.
42
For they are my servants, which I brought forth out of the land of Egypt: they shall not be sold as bondmen. as: Heb. with the sale of a bondman
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(40) **But as an hired servant.**—The master is in all respects to treat him as one who disposes of his service for wages for a certain time, and will then be his own master again.
**Shall serve thee unto the year of jubile.**—Nor could he be kept beyond the year of jubile. This terminated the sale of his services just as it cancelled all the sales of landed property.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Leviticus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Leviticus 25:40 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Leviticus 25:40
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge