Leviticus 19:14

"“‘You shall not oppress your neighbor, nor rob him. “‘The wages of a hired servant shall not remain with you all night until the morning."

Key Reflection

Leviticus 19:14 commands two related behaviors: prohibition of oppression and robbery, and ensuring fair treatment of workers by promptly paying them. The first part, "You shall not oppress your neighbor, nor rob him," addresses the broader issue of justice and fairness in societal interactions. The second part, "The wages of a hired servant shall not remain with you all night until the morning," specifically deals with labor practices, ensuring that workers are paid promptly to prevent financial distress. This command reflects the cultural context where delayed payment could lead to significant hardship for those who relied on daily wages for survival. By including this specific detail, the text underscores the importance of integrity and fairness in economic transactions, aligning with broader themes of justice throughout the Pentateuch.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The meaning appears to be, “Thou shalt not utter curses to the deaf because he cannot hear thee, neither shalt thou put a stumbling-block in the way of the blind because he cannot see thee (compareDeuteronomy 27:18), but thou shalt remember that though the weak and poor cannot resist, nor the deaf hear, nor the blind see, God is strong, and sees and hears all that thou doest.” CompareJob 29:15.

More from Leviticus 19

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