Leviticus 25:45 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Non-Israelite resident aliens and their children born in Israel may be enslaved permanently.
The Context of Leviticus 25:45
Non-Israelite residents and their children can be enslaved permanently.
What Does Leviticus 25:45 Mean?
The text permits enslavement of foreign residents and their descendants. Children born to non-Israelite residents in Israel are treated as permanent property. This extends slavery beyond first-generation captives to those with no other homeland.
This reflects a hierarchical social structure. The covenant people, redeemed from slavery, occupy the top tier and cannot be enslaved. Resident aliens and their children occupy a lower tier where permanent servitude is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 25:45
What does Leviticus 25:45 mean?
Non-Israelite resident aliens and their children born in Israel may be enslaved permanently.
What is the context of Leviticus 25:45?
Non-Israelite residents and their children can be enslaved permanently.