Definition: And if thy brother [that dwelleth] by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Leviticus 25:39. It’s a really important part of how God wants us to treat each other in the Bible. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about protecting and caring for your siblings . It’s saying that if your brother becomes in need – if he’s struggling financially – you don’t have to force him to work for you. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And if thy brother [that dwelleth] by thee be waxen poor…” - This means "if your brother lives with you" or “if your brother is living near you.” It’s a specific situation focusing on a sibling. “…and be sold unto thee:” – This means he's being offered for sale, and you are taking him under your care. “Thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant:” - This is the key part! "Bondservant" was a special job where someone worked for someone else, often in exchange for a wage. This verse says that you shouldn't force him to do this work. You aren’t obligated to let him work for you. What it means practically: Basically, it's about compassion and fairness . It’s a way of showing kindness and protecting someone who is struggling. It discourages us from being harsh or manipulative when our siblings are in need. Why is this important? This verse reflects God's concern for his people. He wants to ensure everyone has a fair chance, and that includes taking care of those who are vulnerable. It’s a reminder to be gentle and considerate of others, especially those we love. In short: Don’t force your brother to work for you if he’s in financial hardship – treat him with kindness and respect. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give an example of how this principle applies in a real-life situation?