Leviticus 19:36 commands fairness and honesty in commercial transactions. Let's break it down:
"You shall have just balances, just weights...": This refers to scales and the stones used to measure weight. The command is to use accurate and honest measuring tools.
"...a just ephah, and a just hin.": An ephah was a dry measure (for grains, etc.), and a hin was a liquid measure. Again, these measures should be accurate and standardized.
"I am Yahweh your God...": This is the divine authority backing the command. It emphasizes the importance of the law and links it to the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites.
"...who brought you out of the land of Egypt.": This serves as a reminder of God's redemption of the Israelites from slavery. It implies that since God rescued them from injustice, they should act justly towards one another.
In essence, the verse is a moral imperative for honest business practices. It is a part of a larger section of Leviticus that deals with holiness and ethical behavior. The verse connects honesty in transactions to their relationship with God and their historical experience. By being fair in their dealings, the Israelites would reflect God's character and uphold the covenant they had made with Him.
It highlights the ethical implications of faith, and the importance of integrity in everyday actions. This verse and its surrounding context, are often cited as principles that apply to all societies, emphasizing the importance of fair trade and economic justice.
Leviticus 19:36 commands fairness and honesty in commercial transactions. Let's break it down:
"You shall have just balances, just weights...": This refers to scales and the stones used to measure weight. The command is to use accurate and honest measuring tools.
"...a just ephah, and a just hin.": An ephah was a dry measure (for grains, etc.), and a hin was a liquid measure. Again, these measures should be accurate and standardized.
"I am Yahweh your God...": This is the divine authority backing the command. It emphasizes the importance of the law and links it to the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites.
"...who brought you out of the land of Egypt.": This serves as a reminder of God's redemption of the Israelites from slavery. It implies that since God rescued them from injustice, they should act justly towards one another.
In essence, the verse is a moral imperative for honest business practices. It is a part of a larger section of Leviticus that deals with holiness and ethical behavior. The verse connects honesty in transactions to their relationship with God and their historical experience. By being fair in their dealings, the Israelites would reflect God's character and uphold the covenant they had made with Him.
It highlights the ethical implications of faith, and the importance of integrity in everyday actions. This verse and its surrounding context, are often cited as principles that apply to all societies, emphasizing the importance of fair trade and economic justice.