Catholic Public Domain Version
Leviticus 25:14
“When you will sell anything to your fellow citizen, or buy anything from him, do not cause your brother grief, but buy from him according to the number of years from the Jubilee,”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Leviticus 25:14.
Plain-language explanation
Leviticus 25:14 teaches fairness in business between fellow Israelites. Whether you buy or sell, you should not take advantage or create hardship. The price should be set in line with the time left until the Jubilee, so people are not burdened unfairly.
Catholic context
Many Catholics read this as a call to justice and mercy in ordinary economic life. It emphasizes that God cares about how we treat “brothers and sisters,” especially in transactions—avoiding exploitation and honoring the dignity of the other person. It also connects with the broader biblical theme that property and livelihood ultimately belong to God, so human dealings should reflect that stewardship.
Historical background
In Israel’s law, the Jubilee (Leviticus 25) occurred regularly and reset certain economic arrangements, especially concerning land. Because land and its use had a Jubilee horizon, prices and arrangements were tied to how many years remained. This prevented sellers or buyers from gaining unfair advantages as the Jubilee approached or receded.
Reflection
This verse is a gentle guardrail: love of neighbor should shape even our contracts. It asks whether our “right” to profit is tempered by concern for the other person’s burdens. When we price with Jubilee in mind—meaning we remember that time and provision are under God—we act more honestly and more compassionately.
Practical takeaway
Before negotiating or setting a price, ask: Am I making it harder for the other person? Am I taking advantage of their vulnerability? Can I adjust the terms to be fair—especially where a future “reset” (or real-life dependency) matters? Practice honesty, transparency, and compassion in buying and selling.
Prayer
Lord God, help me trade and speak with integrity. Teach me not to cause grief through unfair dealings, but to act justly and mercifully toward my neighbor. Give me wisdom to honor the dignity of others in every agreement. Amen.