In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, the practice of selling individuals, including women and children, to satisfy debts was not uncommon in the ancient Near East. This practice is reflected in several biblical passages, which provide insight into the societal norms and legal structures of the time.

Old Testament Context

The Mosaic Law contains provisions that address the issue of debt and servitude. In Exodus 21:7-11, the law outlines the rights of a female servant sold by her father, emphasizing her protection and the conditions under which she may be released. While this passage does not directly address the sale of a wife for her husband's debts, it provides a framework for understanding the treatment of women in servitude.

Leviticus 25:39-41 further elaborates on the treatment of debt slaves, stating, "If your brother among you becomes destitute and sells himself to you, you must not force him into slave labor. Let him stay with you as a hired worker or temporary resident; he is to work for you until the Year of Jubilee. Then he and his children are to be released, and he may return to his clan and to the property of his fathers." This passage underscores the temporary nature of servitude and the eventual restoration of freedom and property.

Prophetic Critique

The prophets often criticized the exploitation and mistreatment of the vulnerable, including women. In Amos 2:6-7, the prophet condemns Israel for selling the righteous for silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, highlighting the moral corruption and social injustice prevalent in the society. Although this passage does not specifically mention women being sold for debts, it reflects the broader concern for justice and the protection of the oppressed.

New Testament Perspective

The New Testament does not directly address the issue of women being sold for their husband's debts. However, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles emphasize the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of gender or social status. Galatians 3:28 declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This verse underscores the equality and unity of all believers in Christ, challenging the societal norms that devalue women.

Cultural and Historical Considerations

Understanding the practice of selling women for debts requires a consideration of the cultural and historical context of the biblical world. In ancient societies, women often had limited legal rights and were considered part of the household property. The patriarchal structure meant that a husband's debts could impact the entire family, including the potential sale of family members to satisfy financial obligations.

While the Bible reflects the realities of its time, it also contains principles that advocate for justice, mercy, and the protection of the vulnerable. The biblical narrative consistently points towards a higher moral standard, calling for the fair and compassionate treatment of all individuals, including women.Matthew 18:25
But for as much as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.
Nave's Topical Index

Jehoram Succeeds Jehoshaphat; How Joram, his Namesake, King of ...
... mercy upon her on account of what her husband did, and ... and a seah of fine flour should
be sold for a ... against the stones, and wilt rip up their women with child ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 4 jehoram succeeds jehoshaphat.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... the towns and country, who were continually reinforced by individuals of the native
race, such as foundlings, women and children sold by husband or father ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

Another Wonderful Record of 25.
... had been purchased on credit, and all sold for watches ... Once, soon after the death
of my husband and the ... After morning service, a band of devoted women met, and ...
/.../various/the wonders of prayer/another wonderful record of 25 00.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... his command; they comprised 1200 vessels of various build, and probably 120,000
combatants, besides the rabble of servants, hucksters, and women which followed ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Abimelech, and put them to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them; so that
all the men of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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