Leviticus 25:39 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Moses, if someone living near you becomes very poor and sells himself to you, you shouldn't make him work like a slave. Instead, you should treat him kindly and with respect.

Contradiction with Exodus 21:2

This verse allows Hebrew servants to serve for only six years, whereas Leviticus 25:39 suggests they serve indefinitely until the year of jubilee.

Exodus 21:2: If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 15:12

This verse indicates that a Hebrew man or woman can serve for six years and must be freed in the seventh year, contradicting the indefinite servitude implied in Leviticus 25:39.

Deuteronomy 15:12: [And] if thy brother, an Hebrew man, or an Hebrew woman, be sold unto thee, and serve thee six years; then in the seventh year thou shalt let him go free from thee.

Contradiction with Jeremiah 34:14

This verse commands that Hebrew servants be released after six years, contrasting with the longer-term servitude described in Leviticus 25:39.

Jeremiah 34:14: At the end of seven years let ye go every man his brother an Hebrew, which hath been sold unto thee; and when he hath served thee six years, thou shalt let him go free from thee: but your fathers hearkened not unto me, neither inclined their ear. [hath been...: or, hath sold himself]

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction with Leviticus 25:39 could involve the concept of slavery or servitude. In this verse, Israelites are instructed not to treat their own people as slaves. This could appear inconsistent with other parts of the Bible where slavery is permitted or regulated, leading to questions about the moral and ethical stance on slavery. Additionally, it might conflict with the broader biblical principles of equality and love for one's neighbor.

Paradox #2

The contradiction or inconsistency could relate to the practice of slavery. In different parts of the Bible, the approach to slavery and servitude can seem inconsistent. Some passages appear to regulate and permit it, while others emphasize freedom and equality, which can seem conflicting from a modern perspective.

Paradox #3