Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 25:48 mean?
A: Leviticus 25:48 discusses the laws of redeeming a Jewish person who was sold into servitude due to poverty. The verse states that after being sold, the person may be redeemed (bought back) by a relative ('one of his brethren'). This reflects the Torah's emphasis on maintaining family bonds and providing a path to freedom.
Q: Why is the concept of redemption important in this verse?
A: Redemption (גְּאֻלָּה) is a key Torah principle showing compassion and responsibility within the Jewish community. The Rambam (Hilchos Avadim 2:10) explains that redeeming a fellow Jew from servitude is a mitzvah (commandment), emphasizing the value of freedom and helping those in difficult circumstances.
Q: Who can redeem a person according to Leviticus 25:48?
A: The verse specifies that 'one of his brethren'—meaning a close relative—has the first right to redeem him. Rashi explains this includes brothers, uncles, cousins, or any family member who is able. If no relative steps forward, the person may redeem themselves if they gain the means (see Leviticus 25:49).
Q: Does this law apply today?
A: While the specific laws of Jewish servitude do not apply in the same way today (since the conditions described in the Torah are not present), the underlying values—such as helping those in financial hardship, supporting family, and pursuing justice—remain timeless. The Talmud (Kiddushin 20a) discusses these laws to derive ethical lessons for all generations.
Q: What is the difference between a Hebrew slave and a regular slave in the Torah?
A: A 'Hebrew slave' (eved Ivri) refers to a Jewish person who sold themselves due to poverty (as in Leviticus 25:48), and they retain certain rights, including eventual freedom. In contrast, a non-Jewish slave (eved Kena'ani) had different laws. The Torah's treatment of a Jewish servant emphasizes dignity, limited servitude, and the obligation of redemption (see Rambam, Hilchos Avadim).
Context in the Torah
The verse (Vayikra 25:48) discusses the laws of a Jewish indentured servant who has been sold due to financial hardship. The Torah provides a framework for his eventual redemption, emphasizing the responsibility of family members to assist in this process.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 25:48) clarifies that the phrase "after he is sold" refers to the period following the sale to a non-Jewish master. The term "גְּאֻלָּה" (redemption) indicates that a relative has the right to redeem the servant by paying the remaining value of his service. Rashi emphasizes that this mitzvah applies specifically when the servant is sold to a non-Jew, as Jewish masters are already bound by the Jubilee year laws (Yovel) for automatic release.
Rambam's Legal Perspective
In Hilchos Avadim (2:1-2), the Rambam codifies this law, stating that redeeming a Jewish servant from a non-Jewish master is a positive commandment. He explains that the redeemer must be a blood relative ("one of his brethren"), with priority given to closer relatives. The redemption price is calculated based on the remaining years until the Yovel.
Talmudic Analysis
Moral and Ethical Dimensions
The Kli Yakar (Vayikra 25:48) highlights the ethical imperative behind this law: preserving the dignity of a Jew who has fallen into difficult circumstances. The requirement for family redemption reinforces the bonds of communal responsibility. The Sforno adds that this system prevents the servant from assimilating into non-Jewish culture during an extended servitude.
Halachic Applications