He shall dwell with thee, even among you, in that place which he shall choose in one of thy gates, where it liketh him best: thou shalt not oppress him.
Let him live with you, among your people, in whatever town he chooses, wherever he feels most comfortable. Don't mistreat him or take advantage of him.
This verse is commanding the Israelites to welcome and protect runaway slaves, allowing them to live freely wherever they choose without oppression.
📚 Historical Context
In the historical context of ancient Israel, this verse from Deuteronomy was part of the laws given by Moses to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, emphasizing God's standards for justice and compassion in a society surrounded by nations that often exploited the vulnerable. It specifically addressed escaped slaves or refugees who fled to Israelite territory, commanding the people not to return them to their masters but to allow them to choose their place of residence and live without oppression. This law reflected Israel's identity as a nation chosen by God to model fairness and protection for the weak in a world where slavery and mistreatment were common.
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