This verse underscores the principle that those in authority should treat others justly and with respect, acknowledging God’s ultimate dominion.
In “Like a man hired year by year he shall be with him; he shall not rule over him with severity in your sight” (v.53) the LORD instructs the Israelites to treat a fellow Hebrew who has sold himself into servitude with dignity and respect. The phrase “Like a man hired year by year” (v.53) indicates that this person, even though bound in a master-servant relationship, retained certain protections akin to those of a hired worker rather than a harshly treated slave. Israel was reminded that such arrangements were still subject to God’s divine standards, ensuring that the master’s responsibilities included genuine care and fair compensation, not dominating authority (see also Romans 13:10).
The command “he shall not rule over him with severity in your sight” (v.53) emphasizes the LORD’s concern for mercy within the covenant community. Though social and economic hierarchies existed, God’s people were built on a foundation of compassionate justice. This principle resonates through the New Testament, where Christ teaches that true greatness involves humility and servanthood (Mark 10:44-45). Such teaching aligns perfectly with the intent here in Leviticus, stressing that every individual under God’s provision deserves kind treatment and equal regard.
God’s people are called to reflect His character by extending gentleness and equity in every relationship, recognizing that all belong to Him.
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Leviticus 25:53 meaning
In “Like a man hired year by year he shall be with him; he shall not rule over him with severity in your sight” (v.53) the LORD instructs the Israelites to treat a fellow Hebrew who has sold himself into servitude with dignity and respect. The phrase “Like a man hired year by year” (v.53) indicates that this person, even though bound in a master-servant relationship, retained certain protections akin to those of a hired worker rather than a harshly treated slave. Israel was reminded that such arrangements were still subject to God’s divine standards, ensuring that the master’s responsibilities included genuine care and fair compensation, not dominating authority (see also Romans 13:10).
The command “he shall not rule over him with severity in your sight” (v.53) emphasizes the LORD’s concern for mercy within the covenant community. Though social and economic hierarchies existed, God’s people were built on a foundation of compassionate justice. This principle resonates through the New Testament, where Christ teaches that true greatness involves humility and servanthood (Mark 10:44-45). Such teaching aligns perfectly with the intent here in Leviticus, stressing that every individual under God’s provision deserves kind treatment and equal regard.
God’s people are called to reflect His character by extending gentleness and equity in every relationship, recognizing that all belong to Him.