Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Slaving, in the biblical context, refers to the practice of owning, buying, and selling human beings as property. This practice is addressed in various parts of the Bible, reflecting the historical and cultural settings of the times. The Bible provides regulations and guidelines concerning slavery, which were intended to govern the treatment of slaves and to mitigate the harshness of the institution. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, slavery was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern societies, including Israel. The Mosaic Law contains specific instructions regarding the treatment of slaves. For instance, Exodus 21:2-6 outlines the conditions under which Hebrew slaves were to be released: "If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free, without paying anything" . This regulation reflects a system of indentured servitude rather than perpetual slavery. The Law also provided protections for slaves, such as in Exodus 21:26-27, which mandates the release of a slave if the owner causes them physical harm: "If a man strikes the eye of his manservant or maidservant and destroys it, he must let the servant go free in compensation for the eye" . New Testament References In the New Testament, slavery is acknowledged as a social reality, and instructions are given to both slaves and masters. The Apostle Paul addresses slaves in Ephesians 6:5-8, urging them to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would obey Christ: "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ" . Similarly, masters are instructed to treat their slaves with fairness and without threats, recognizing that they too have a Master in heaven (Ephesians 6:9). The Epistle to Philemon provides a personal example of the Christian approach to slavery. Paul writes to Philemon regarding Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a Christian. Paul appeals to Philemon to receive Onesimus not merely as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ (Philemon 1:15-16). Theological Implications The Bible's treatment of slavery must be understood within its historical context. While the Scriptures do not explicitly condemn the institution of slavery, they introduce principles that undermine its harshness and promote the dignity and equality of all human beings. The concept of all people being made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and the call to love one's neighbor as oneself (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39) lay the groundwork for the eventual abolition of slavery. The New Testament emphasizes the spiritual equality of all believers in Christ, as stated in Galatians 3:28: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" . This spiritual equality challenges the social hierarchies of the time and points towards a community where all are valued equally. Historical and Cultural Considerations It is important to recognize that the form of slavery practiced in biblical times differed significantly from the chattel slavery that developed in later centuries, particularly in the transatlantic slave trade. Biblical slavery often involved debt servitude, where individuals worked to pay off debts, and it included provisions for eventual release and integration into society. The Bible's instructions regarding slavery were part of a broader legal and moral framework designed to guide the Israelites in their covenant relationship with God. These laws were intended to reflect God's justice and mercy, even within the constraints of human societal structures. Conclusion While the Bible addresses the institution of slavery, it also lays the foundation for principles of justice, mercy, and equality that have inspired movements for the abolition of slavery throughout history. The transformative message of the Gospel calls believers to recognize the inherent worth of every individual and to work towards a society that reflects God's love and justice. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Slave.Library "Good-For-Nothing" Abandonment a Source of Joy. Passion. Implanted Dispositions. Spoken in Antioch in the Old Church, as it was Called... Acts x. 23, 24 Eighth Tractate. On the Intellectual Beauty. A Traveler's Note-Book Thesaurus Slaving (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Slave. Multi-Version Concordance Slaving (1 Occurrence). Luke 15:29 "'All these years ... /s/slaving.htm - 6k Slavonic Enjoy (68 Occurrences) Myself (395 Occurrences) Slave-traders (1 Occurrence) Orders (736 Occurrences) Resources Slaving: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Slaving (1 Occurrence)Luke 15:29 Subtopics Related Terms |
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