Leviticus 25:47 Meaning and Explanation
“And if a sojourner or stranger wax rich by thee, and thy brother that dwelleth by him wax poor, and sell himself unto the stranger or sojourner by thee, or to the stock of the stranger's family:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →If a non-Israelite resident grows wealthy and a poor Israelite falls into servitude to him, redemption laws still apply.
The Context of Leviticus 25:47
Even an Israelite who indentured to a non-Israelite can be redeemed.
What Does Leviticus 25:47 Mean?
This scenario inverts the normal power dynamic: a foreigner becomes rich in Israel while an Israelite becomes impoverished and sells himself into servitude to the alien. Even in this awkward situation, the Israelite's covenant status is protected. He cannot be held in permanent slavery.
The verse opens the possibility that a poor Israelite might indenture himself to a non-Israelite resident. Economic desperation can override normal boundaries. But the law will not allow the boundary to dissolve permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leviticus 25:47
What does Leviticus 25:47 mean?
If a non-Israelite resident grows wealthy and a poor Israelite falls into servitude to him, redemption laws still apply.
What is the context of Leviticus 25:47?
Even an Israelite who indentured to a non-Israelite can be redeemed.