Definition: Ye shall not therefore oppress one another; but thou shalt fear thy God: for I [am] the LORD your God.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 25:17. It's a really important and slightly complex part of Jewish law – essentially, it’s about how to treat each other with fairness and respect. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that we must treat each other with respect and avoid being harsh or cruel towards one another. It's a strong warning against unfairness and malice. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Ye shall not therefore oppress one another…” – This means we shouldn't be deliberately treating others unfairly, like bullying, harming, or taking advantage of them. It's about being kind and considerate. “…but thou shalt fear thy God.” – This is the key part! It’s saying that you must show reverence and respect to God. Fear isn’t about being scared; it means recognizing that God is powerful and just, and that we should honor Him in our dealings with each other. “for I [am] the LORD your God.” – This confirms that this command comes directly from God himself. It's a declaration of authority and responsibility. Putting it all together: Basically, this verse is telling us to be honest, fair, and compassionate in our relationships with others. It’s about recognizing that God is the ultimate judge, and we should act with respect and honor Him as well. It's a reminder of the importance of a just and loving society – where everyone is treated with dignity. Why is this important? This passage emphasizes the idea of justice and righteousness . It’s about upholding God’s moral law, which involves treating people with fairness and avoiding harm. It’s also about recognizing that we are all part of a larger community, and our actions have consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Leviticus? Give you some examples of how this principle applies in modern life?