This verse calls God’s people to practice justice and honesty because they recognize they stand before the holy and loving LORD.
“So you shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God; for I am the LORD your God.” (v.17)
In this verse, Moses—who likely lived between 1526-1406 BC—conveys a divine command that governs how the Israelites are to treat one another within the covenant community. This command, so you shall not wrong one another, underscores the principle that every transaction or interaction between neighbors must be fair and gracious, free from any deceit or exploitation. In ancient Israel’s agrarian society, land was a critical source of survival, and people were vulnerable to manipulation through unfair deals or harsh indebtedness. By giving this prohibition, the LORD protects the community from relational harm, fostering a culture grounded in honesty and goodwill.
The second part of the verse, but you shall fear your God, emphasizes the deeper motivation for obedience. Rather than simply following social norms, the Israelites were reminded that their ultimate accountability was to God Himself. To “fear” Him was more than a feeling of dread; it meant revering His holiness and recognizing His power to bless obedience and correct injustice. As part of the divine treaty (or covenant), the people were called to uphold God’s standards so they might enjoy His favor, being set apart as a priestly nation and a beacon for other peoples. This theme of holy reverence appears throughout Leviticus, where God’s commands provide a framework for a just and compassionate society, reflecting His character. According to the broader context of the Mosaic Law, living out these instructions would serve as an example that a better and more loving way to live is found in obedience to God.
Jesus later taught a similar principle when He summarized the Mosaic commands in loving God and loving one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). In caring for each other without cheating or wrongdoing, the community manifests the same righteousness and compassion Jesus demonstrated during His ministry. Believers in the New Testament are likewise called to genuine love, integrity, and concern for the welfare of the body of Christ (Romans 12:9-10). Such attitudes flow naturally from reverence toward God’s holiness and gracious rule.
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Leviticus 25:17 meaning
“So you shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God; for I am the LORD your God.” (v.17)
In this verse, Moses—who likely lived between 1526-1406 BC—conveys a divine command that governs how the Israelites are to treat one another within the covenant community. This command, so you shall not wrong one another, underscores the principle that every transaction or interaction between neighbors must be fair and gracious, free from any deceit or exploitation. In ancient Israel’s agrarian society, land was a critical source of survival, and people were vulnerable to manipulation through unfair deals or harsh indebtedness. By giving this prohibition, the LORD protects the community from relational harm, fostering a culture grounded in honesty and goodwill.
The second part of the verse, but you shall fear your God, emphasizes the deeper motivation for obedience. Rather than simply following social norms, the Israelites were reminded that their ultimate accountability was to God Himself. To “fear” Him was more than a feeling of dread; it meant revering His holiness and recognizing His power to bless obedience and correct injustice. As part of the divine treaty (or covenant), the people were called to uphold God’s standards so they might enjoy His favor, being set apart as a priestly nation and a beacon for other peoples. This theme of holy reverence appears throughout Leviticus, where God’s commands provide a framework for a just and compassionate society, reflecting His character. According to the broader context of the Mosaic Law, living out these instructions would serve as an example that a better and more loving way to live is found in obedience to God.
Jesus later taught a similar principle when He summarized the Mosaic commands in loving God and loving one’s neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). In caring for each other without cheating or wrongdoing, the community manifests the same righteousness and compassion Jesus demonstrated during His ministry. Believers in the New Testament are likewise called to genuine love, integrity, and concern for the welfare of the body of Christ (Romans 12:9-10). Such attitudes flow naturally from reverence toward God’s holiness and gracious rule.