Definition and Context:
The term "countryman" generally refers to an individual who belongs to the same country or region as another. In biblical times, the concept of a countryman would have been closely tied to tribal and familial affiliations, as well as national identity. The Bible often emphasizes the importance of community, kinship, and the responsibilities one has towards their fellow countrymen.

Biblical References and Themes:

1. Kinship and Brotherhood:
The Bible frequently underscores the importance of treating one's countrymen with love and respect. In Leviticus 19:18 , it is written, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This commandment highlights the expectation of harmonious relationships among countrymen, rooted in love and forgiveness.

2. Justice and Fairness:
The biblical narrative often calls for justice and fairness in dealings with one's countrymen. Deuteronomy 24:14-15 instructs, "Do not oppress a hired hand who is poor and needy, whether he is one of your brothers or a foreigner residing in one of your towns. You are to pay his wages each day before sunset, because he is poor and depends on them." This passage emphasizes the ethical treatment of fellow countrymen, particularly those who are vulnerable.

3. Support and Assistance:
The Bible encourages providing support and assistance to countrymen in need. In Deuteronomy 15:7-8 , it is stated, "If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs." This directive reflects the communal responsibility to care for one another.

4. Unity and Peace:
The unity of countrymen is a recurring theme in Scripture. Psalm 133:1 declares, "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" This verse celebrates the beauty and strength found in the unity of countrymen, which is seen as a blessing from God.

5. Warnings Against Division:
The Bible also warns against actions that cause division among countrymen. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things the Lord detests, including "a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers." This admonition serves as a caution against behaviors that disrupt the peace and unity of the community.

Historical and Cultural Insights:

In ancient Israel, the concept of a countryman was deeply intertwined with tribal identity. The twelve tribes of Israel, descended from the sons of Jacob, formed the foundational social structure. Each tribe had its own land, leaders, and responsibilities, yet they were united under the covenant with God. The laws given to Israel often emphasized the treatment of fellow Israelites, reflecting the importance of maintaining unity and justice within the nation.

Theological Implications:

The treatment of countrymen in the Bible reflects broader theological themes of love, justice, and community. The call to love one's neighbor as oneself is a central tenet of biblical teaching, extending beyond mere familial or national ties to encompass all of humanity. This principle is foundational to the Christian understanding of ethical behavior and social responsibility.

Conclusion:
While the Bible provides specific instructions for the treatment of countrymen within the context of ancient Israel, the underlying principles of love, justice, and community continue to resonate in contemporary Christian thought. The biblical call to care for one's fellow countrymen serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of unity and compassion in human relationships.251. ach -- a brother
... brother (218), brother with his brothers (1), brother's (21), brotherhood (1), brothers
(195), brothers' (1), companions (1), countryman (10), countryman's (2 ...
/hebrew/251.htm - 6k

Memoir of John Bunyan
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

Countryman's (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Countryman's (2 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 22:1
You shall not see your brother's ox or his sheep go astray ...
/c/countryman's.htm - 7k

Countryman (19 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. COUNTRYMAN. ... Compare Mark 6:4 Romans 9:3; and see
COUSIN; KINSMAN, etc. Multi-Version Concordance Countryman (19 Occurrences). ...
/c/countryman.htm - 13k

Countrymen (60 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Plural of Countryman. Multi-Version Concordance
Countrymen (60 Occurrences). Luke 19:14 "Now his countrymen ...
/c/countrymen.htm - 26k

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