Bible Strands
Leviticus 25:42
Because the Israelites are My servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt, they are not to be sold as slaves.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — God addresses Moses and the Israelite assembly during the Sinai covenant regulations, establishing economic and social boundaries for the Year of Jubilee.
The words — עֲבָדַ֣/י ('a.va.Da/i) translates literally as "are my servants," and הוֹצֵ֥אתִי (ho.Tze.ti) means "I brought out," anchoring the prohibition in divine action rather than human authority.
The thread — The identical formula "they are My servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt" recurs in Leviticus 25:55, while the broader theme of divine deliverance framing covenant loyalty appears in Romans 6:22 and 1 Corinthians 7:21.
Why it lands — It establishes a non-negotiable boundary for economic treatment: Israelite servitude is prohibited because their status as delivered servants belongs to God, not their masters.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
For they are my servants, which I brought forth out of the land of Egypt: they shall not be sold as bondmen.
Cross-references
- Leviticus 25:55 For the Israelites are My servants. They are My servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.
- Romans 6:22 But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you reap leads to holiness, and the outcome is eternal life.
- 1 Corinthians 7:21 Were you a slave when you were called? Do not let it concern you—but if you can gain your freedom, take the opportunity.