Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the practice of giving money for slaves is addressed in various passages, reflecting the socio-economic and cultural realities of ancient times. The Bible provides insights into the treatment, valuation, and redemption of slaves, which were integral to the ancient Near Eastern societies, including Israel.Old Testament Context The Old Testament contains several references to the acquisition and treatment of slaves. In Exodus 21:32, the law stipulates compensation for the injury or death of a slave: "If the bull gores a male or female slave, the owner must pay thirty shekels of silver to the master of the slave, and the bull must be stoned." This passage indicates a monetary value assigned to slaves, reflecting their economic role within the household. Leviticus 25:44-46 provides regulations regarding the purchase of slaves: "Your male and female slaves are to come from the nations around you; from them you may buy slaves. You may also buy from the temporary residents living among you and members of their clans born in your land, and they will become your property. You can bequeath them to your children as inherited property and can make them slaves for life, but you must not rule over your fellow Israelites ruthlessly." This passage highlights the distinction between foreign slaves and fellow Israelites, who were to be treated with more leniency. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the issue of slavery is addressed within the broader context of Christian conduct and relationships. While the New Testament does not explicitly condemn the institution of slavery, it emphasizes the spiritual equality of all believers. In 1 Corinthians 7:21-23, Paul advises: "Were you a slave when you were called? Do not let it trouble you—but if you can gain your freedom, do so. For the one who was a slave when called to faith in the Lord is the Lord’s freed person; similarly, the one who was free when called is Christ’s slave. You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men." 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 "no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother" (Philemon 1:16). This appeal underscores the transformative power of the Gospel in redefining relationships. Theological Implications The biblical treatment of slavery, including the exchange of money for slaves, must be understood within its historical and cultural context. The Bible's overarching narrative points towards a redemptive trajectory, where the dignity and worth of every individual are affirmed. The New Testament, in particular, lays the groundwork for the eventual abolition of slavery by emphasizing the inherent value of each person as created in the image of God and redeemed by Christ. While the Bible records the practice of slavery and the exchange of money for slaves, it also provides principles that have been foundational in the movement towards freedom and equality. The call to love one's neighbor and the recognition of the spiritual equality of all people in Christ have been pivotal in shaping Christian thought and action regarding human dignity and justice. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 37:28Then 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. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 21:21 Library The Mystery of the Lost Brother The Entrusted Talents. The Rule Given About not Seeking One's Own Gain is Established... Of Learning Philosophy, and what Great Qualifications are ... Marriage and Celibacy. On the Fall To the Rev. A. Brandram Conclusion of Our Lord's Discourse. Parables of virgins and ... Letter iv. To the Bishops Appointed in Campania, Picenum, Etruria ... How Alexander [Bala] in his War with Demetrius, Granted Jonathan ... Resources Should the church accept money if it is obtained in an ungodly manner? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian invest money in the stock market? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about handling money in a marriage? | GotQuestions.org Money: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Money Changers: General Scriptures Concerning Money of the Jews Regulated by the Standard of Sanctuary Money of the Romans, Stamped With the Image of Caesar Money was Current With the Merchants Money was Given for Merchandise Money was Given: Custom of Presenting a Piece of Money was Given: Love of, the Root of all Evil Money was Given: Power and Usefulness of Money: Brass Introduced As, by the Romans Money: Gold and Silver Used As Money: Jews Forbidden to Take Usury For Money: Love of, the Root of Evil Money: Originally Stamped With the Image of a Lamb Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Farthing Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Fourth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Gerah the Twentieth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Half Shekel or Bekah Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Mite Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Penny Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Pound Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Shekel of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Gold Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Third of a Shekel Money: Usually Taken by Weight Money: Value of, Varied Corruptly Related Terms Money-changers (5 Occurrences) Redemption-money (3 Occurrences) |
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