Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient world, commerce was a vital part of daily life, and the trade of various goods, including slaves, was a significant aspect of economic activity. The Bible provides several references to the practice of slavery, reflecting its prevalence in ancient societies, including those of the Near East.Biblical Context Slavery in biblical times was a complex institution, often differing significantly from the chattel slavery known in more recent history. In the Bible, individuals could become slaves through various means, such as being captured in war, sold by their families due to poverty, or as a result of debt. The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations regarding the treatment of slaves, emphasizing a degree of humane treatment and offering certain protections. Old Testament References The Old Testament contains numerous references to slavery, illustrating its integration into the social and economic fabric of the time. For instance, in Genesis 37:28, Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers for twenty shekels of silver, highlighting the practice of trading individuals as commodities. The Book of Exodus outlines laws concerning Hebrew slaves, including the provision for their release in the seventh year (Exodus 21:2-6). The prophet Joel condemns the nations for their involvement in the slave trade, stating, "They cast lots for My people; they traded a boy for a prostitute and sold a girl for wine to drink" (Joel 3:3). This passage underscores the moral and ethical concerns associated with the commodification of human lives. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, slavery is acknowledged as a societal reality, yet the teachings of Jesus and the apostles introduce a transformative perspective on human relationships. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, addresses the issue of slavery, urging Christian masters to treat their slaves with fairness and kindness, as seen in Ephesians 6:9: "And masters, do the same for them. Give up your use of threats, because you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him" . The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of the fall of Babylon, a symbol of corrupt commerce and exploitation, including the trade of human lives. Revelation 18:13 lists "slaves and souls of men" among the merchandise of the fallen city, highlighting the dehumanizing nature of such commerce. Moral and Ethical Considerations The Bible's treatment of slavery, while reflective of its historical context, also points towards a higher moral standard. The overarching biblical narrative emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This theological foundation challenges the commodification of individuals and calls for justice, mercy, and love in all human interactions. Throughout Scripture, there is a consistent call to remember the plight of the oppressed and to act justly. The prophetic literature, in particular, often speaks against the exploitation of the vulnerable, including those subjected to slavery. The biblical vision ultimately points towards a kingdom where freedom and equality are realized, as expressed in Galatians 3:28: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" . Conclusion While the Bible acknowledges the historical reality of slavery, its teachings progressively reveal a divine intention for liberation and equality. The biblical witness challenges believers to reflect God's justice and compassion in their treatment of all people, recognizing the inherent value of every individual as a bearer of God's image. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 37:28,36Then there passed by Midianites merchants; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 24:7 Library Commerce Twenty-Seven Articles Respecting the Reformation of the Christian ... Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ... Sermon at the Faribault Celebration of the Centennial of the ... The Morning-Meal in the Pharisee's House - Meals and Feasts among ... Ripe for Gathering The Preparations of the Greeks for Defense. Solomon's Reign. Chaldaean Civilization The Birth of England's Foreign Missions Resources How is Satan god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of “Cast your bread upon the waters” in Ecclesiastes 11:1? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Pharisees? | GotQuestions.org Commerce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commerce of the Jews: Checked in Jehoshaphat's Time Commerce of the Jews: Commenced After Their Settlement in Canaan Commerce of the Jews: Greatly Extended by Solomon Commerce of the Jews: Under Strict Laws Commerce: Articles of Blue Cloth Commerce: Articles of Bodies and Souls of Men Commerce: Articles of Chariots Commerce: Articles of Chest of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Chests of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Cinnamon Commerce: Articles of Clothes for Chariots Commerce: Articles of Embroidery Commerce: Articles of Frankincense Commerce: Articles of Iron and Steel Commerce: Articles of Peacocks Commerce: Articles of Perfumes Commerce: Articles of Precious Stones Commerce: Articles of Sweet Cane Commerce: Articles of Thyine Wood Commerce: Articles of White Wool Commerce: Articles of, Called: Merchandise Commerce: Articles of, Called: Wares Commerce: Called: Buying and Selling Commerce: Carried on by Egyptians Commerce: Carried on by Ethiopians Commerce: Carried on by Ishmaelites Commerce: Carried on by Means of Caravans Commerce: Carried on by Means of Ships Commerce: Carried on by Ninevites Commerce: Carried on by People of Tarshish Commerce: Carried on by People of Tyre Commerce: Carried on by Syrians Commerce: Denunciations Connected With Abuses of Commerce: Evil Practices Connected With Commerce: Illustrative of Intercourse With the Apostasy Commerce: Increased the Wealth of Nations and Individuals Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Chapmen Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Merchants Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Sellers and Buyers Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Traffickers Commerce: Persons of Distinction Engaged In Commerce: Success In, Led to Pride Commerce: The Barter of One Commodity for Another Commerce: The Exchange of Commodities for Money Commerce: Transportation of Passengers Related Terms |
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