King James Version
Leviticus 25:43 in the King James Version says “Thou shalt not rule over him with rigour; but shalt fear thy God.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Thou shalt not rule over him with rigour; but shalt fear thy God.”
Leviticus 25:43 · KJV
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.
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
Thou shalt not rule over him with rigour; but shalt fear thy God.
Both thy bondmen, and thy bondmaids, which thou shalt have, shall be of the heathen that are round about you; of them shall ye buy bondmen and bondmaids.
Moreover of the children of the strangers that do sojourn among you, of them shall ye buy, and of their families that are with you, which they begat in your land: and they shall be your possession.
KJV Study — Public Domain
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“Thou shalt not rule”
H7287to tread down, i.e., subjugate; specifically, to crumble off
“thy God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
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.
Leviticus 25:43 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Leviticus 25:43 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge