thinking bible.

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what current economic practices could be seen as 'oppressing' or 'delaying payment' for vulnerable workers?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

James 5:4

Behold, the hire of the laborers who mowed your fields, which has by you been fraudulently withheld, cries out. And the cries of those who reaped have entered into the ears of the Lord of Armies.

This verse is from the New Testament letter of James, likely written in the mid-1st century CE. James, traditionally identified as Jesus' brother, addresses Jewish Christians scattered throughout the Roman Empire, challenging them to live out their faith through actions, particularly regarding justice and care for the poor. He strongly rebukes the wealthy who exploit their workers.

What systems or practices today, even if legal, might be effectively withholding due compensation or dignity from workers?

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Read alongside it

  • Deuteronomy 24:14-15

    This Old Testament law strictly commands paying day laborers before sunset, linking it directly to justice and avoiding sin.

  • Leviticus 19:13

    Another Mosaic law prohibiting defrauding or delaying payment to a hired worker.

  • Malachi 3:5

    This prophet declares God's judgment against those who oppress hired workers, widows, and orphans.

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