Understanding Leviticus 19:13

Bible Verse: "Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbour, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning." (Leviticus 19:13 KJV)

General Meaning

Leviticus 19:13 addresses two crucial principles in social ethics: honesty in labor relations and the importance of timely payment. This verse emphasizes God's desire for justice and fairness in interpersonal dealings, especially concerning those who are vulnerable or dependent on their wages.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry notes that the command not to defraud one’s neighbor reveals the importance of personal integrity. By forbidding the withholding of wages, it underscores that workers deserve timely compensation, a principle that promotes community welfare and morality.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes highlights that the instructions given in this verse are rooted in the principle of justice. It showcases God’s concern for the oppressed and emphasizes the moral obligation of employers to provide what is due to workers without delay, as postponement can lead to hardship.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke explains the societal implications of this command, stating that it encourages a culture of trust and respect. He emphasizes that this commandment not only protects the worker but also upholds a strong moral framework for society.

Connections with Other Scriptures

This verse is deeply connected to several other biblical principles and teachings:

• James 5:4: "Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth."
• Deuteronomy 24:14-15: "Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy... At his day thou shalt give him his hire."
• Proverbs 3:27: "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it."
• Ephesians 4:28: "Let him that stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth."
• Malachi 3:5: "And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages."
• Luke 10:7: "And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the laborer is worthy of his hire."
• Colossians 4:1: "Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven."

Thematic Connections

The themes of justice, honesty, and compassion echoed in Leviticus 19:13 resonate throughout Scripture. This verse emphasizes the significance of treating others with fairness, a principle that is foundational in both the Old and New Testament teachings. These interconnected biblical themes urge an examination of broader ethical behavior within our community and religious practices.

Cross-Referencing the Theme of Fair Treatment

Understanding Leviticus 19:13 within the larger biblical context invites us to explore its implications through cross-references. By observing the manner in which various scriptures converge on the topic of fair treatment, we enrich our understanding of God’s will. The following Bible verses highlight this interconnectedness:

• Matthew 7:12: “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.”
• Romans 12:17: “Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.”
• Philippians 4:19: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
• 1 John 3:17: “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?”

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Leviticus 19:13 serves as a powerful reminder of the ethical standards that God expects of His people. As we seek to embody the spirit of this verse, we not only align ourselves with divine principles but also contribute positively to our communities. Reflecting on this verse and its related scriptures equips us with a robust understanding of the inter-Biblical dialogue on justice and mercy, sharpening our moral compass as we navigate our relationships in today’s world.