Why did God allow slavery in the Bible?

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near East, slavery was a structured part of society and existed in various forms across many cultures. Evidence from the Code of Hammurabi (circa 18th century BC) and other archaeological findings shows that indentured servitude, debt-bondage, and forced labor were widespread. In a subsistence agrarian context, selling oneself or one's family into servitude could be a way to repay debts or survive economic hardship. When looking at Scripture, it is important to note that the biblical world was shaped by surrounding cultures yet also contained unique regulations that pointed toward protecting human dignity (cf. Exodus 21; Leviticus 25).

A System of Economic and Social Regulation

In many Old Testament passages, slavery closely resembled indentured servitude. For instance, individuals who could not pay debts sometimes contracted themselves to work for a set period. Exodus 21:2 states, “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free without paying anything.” This regulation demonstrated a system intended to limit the duration of servitude and prevent perpetual enslavement among the Israelites themselves.

Moreover, Deuteronomy 15:12–14 highlights a similar provision: “If your fellow Hebrew… sells himself to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you must set him free. And when you release him, do not send him away empty-handed.” Such instructions established a societal safety net. Instead of indefinite or life-long ownership, servants could become free members of their community after fulfilling contractual terms, coupled with provisions to help them rebuild their livelihoods.

God’s Providential Use of Human Institutions

Biblical teaching frequently demonstrates how God works within existing human institutions—imperfect though they may be—to accomplish His purposes. In the Old Testament, people entering slavery did so primarily for economic reasons, war captives, or as a legal consequence of crime or indebtedness. These cultural realities already existed long before the giving of the Law. Yet God’s commandments brought restrictions and moral principles that differed significantly from many of the surrounding nations.

Passages such as Genesis 50:20 show that what people intend for harm can be used by God for good. While this verse addresses Joseph’s mistreatment by his brothers (which also involved being sold into slavery), it illustrates God’s redemptive involvement. He intervenes even in unjust systems to preserve His people and bring about good outcomes. Thus, God’s allowance of slavery in Israel did not mean endorsement of cruelty; rather, it reveals Him operating within a fallen world toward a more gracious ethic.

Biblical Regulations Over Slavery

1. Limitations on Mistreatment: Exodus 21:26–27 mandates that if a master caused severe harm to a slave (e.g., knocking out an eye or tooth), the slave would go free: “If a man strikes the eye of his manservant… he shall let the servant go free… as compensation for his eye.” Such stipulations show a legal safeguard protecting slaves from abuse.

2. Mandated Release in the Sabbatical and Jubilee Years: Every seven years, Hebrew servants were to be released (Exodus 21:2; Deuteronomy 15:12). Additionally, Leviticus 25:10–13 describes the Year of Jubilee, during which land was restored to its original owners, signaling a comprehensive reset of property and a community-wide release from servitude.

3. Fair Treatment and Dignity: Scripture repeatedly calls for just dealings, including fair wages and avoidance of oppression. Deuteronomy 24:14 states, “Do not oppress a hired hand who is poor and needy.” This commandment reinforced compassionate treatment of laborers—even among those in servitude.

Scriptures Affirming Equality and God’s Ultimate Plan

Although God regulated slavery laws in ancient Israel, biblical teaching consistently affirms the value of each human being. Genesis 1:27 declares that humankind was created in the image of God, an assertion of intrinsic worth. In the New Testament, the principles of love and mutual respect infuse passages such as Ephesians 6:5–9. There, Paul instructs slaves to serve wholeheartedly, but he also directs masters to treat their servants “in the same way,” rejecting threats and recognizing God’s sovereignty over both master and slave.

Galatians 3:28 emphasizes equality in Christ: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Such declarations transform how believers are meant to view social distinctions.

Fulfillment in Christ

When Christ came into the world, His mission revealed God’s ultimate plan for humanity. Jesus proclaimed in Luke 4:18 that He came to “proclaim liberty to the captives… to set free the oppressed.” Although this primarily addresses spiritual liberation, it also has social implications. The gospel message promotes love, charity, and justice, ultimately challenging the social norms of oppression.

In early Christianity, the emphasis shifted from earthly classifications to unity among believers. The Epistle to Philemon, for instance, offers a case study in how the gospel transforms relationships. Paul, while sending the slave Onesimus back to his master, urged Philemon to receive him “no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother” (Philemon 1:16). This shift in perspective naturally paved the way for the eventual dismantling of slavery as societies and hearts changed over time.

Reflections for Modern Readers

Today, many grapple with why God did not categorically abolish slavery in earlier biblical times. The broader scriptural narrative suggests that God progressively shaped society through moral regulations and through the transforming power of the gospel. The New Testament’s call for each person to love their neighbor (Mark 12:31) stands in stark contrast to the exploitation fundamental to oppressive slavery.

Over centuries, believers—citing texts such as Philemon, Galatians, and the creation account of human equality—became vocal advocates against slavery. Historical accounts document that Christian reformers spearheaded abolitionist movements, and their efforts were often grounded in biblical convictions about God’s justice and compassion. While slavery in ancient times differed significantly from modern chattel slavery, the principles within Scripture ultimately undercut any dehumanizing practice.

Conclusion

God’s allowance of slavery in the Bible appears in a society already marked by economic, legal, and military structures. Yet, He placed boundaries, mandated compassionate treatment, and elevated human worth above the cultural norms of the time. Through progressive revelation, culminating in the teachings of Christ, the Bible set in motion the moral framework that would challenge and eradicate oppressive practices in many cultures.

As the overall storyline of Scripture reveals, God’s intention is not to maintain oppressive hierarchies but to transform hearts and restore relationships. The biblical commandments on servitude point toward responsible care and eventual freedom, reflecting a redemptive pattern that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ. By understanding the cultural setting, recognizing the protective laws within Scripture, and viewing them in light of Christ’s redemptive mission, modern readers see how the biblical message upholds human dignity and leads to true freedom in God’s kingdom.