Leviticus 19:13 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Pay workers promptly; do not withhold or steal their wages.
The Context of Leviticus 19:13
Protects workers' rights; emphasizes prompt payment.
What Does Leviticus 19:13 Mean?
Fraud and robbery target property; this command targets livelihood. A hired worker depends on daily wages for food and survival. Keeping those wages overnight deprives the worker when their need is greatest, treating them as less than human.
The emphasis on morning payment reflects the urgency of the worker's daily needs. This law shows that covenant justice requires meeting basic needs, not merely refraining from harm. Care for the vulnerable is not optional charity but commanded obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 19:13
What does Leviticus 19:13 mean?
Pay workers promptly; do not withhold or steal their wages.
What is the context of Leviticus 19:13?
Protects workers' rights; emphasizes prompt payment.