A forceful argument from experience, the strongest possible motive for generosity (see Deut. 16:12; 24:18, 22; cf. Matt. 10:8; Matt. 18:23-35). The Biblical laws pertaining to servitude not only lightened the lot of the slave but eventually led to his freedom. No Israelite was to be kept in permanent slavery. These rules included the following provisions:

 (1) The Hebrews slave could not be forced to serve longer than six years, and was to be released in the seventh year.

 (2) Harsh treatment by the owner was strictly frowned upon (Lev. 25:39-43).

 (3) If, in a fit of temper, the owner inflicted serious bodily injury on the person of the slave, such a slave was to receive his freedom (Ex. 21:26).

 (4) Unreasonably severe punishment meted out to a slave would subject the owner to legal penalties (Ex. 21:20, 21).

 (5) During servitude, the termsof service were to be so liberally administered that it would be possible for the slave to acquire property or sufficient means to redeem himself (Lev. 25:49).

The operation of these principles would tend steadily to eliminate the unfair and unfortunate lot of the slave. In fact, the lot of the Hebrew “slave” would hardly be recognizable as slavery by the nations round about Israel.