Slavery and Conquests: A Defense of Old Testament Ethics

Abstract: The issue of conquest and slavery in the Old Testament involves the depiction of the total destruction of enemy nations and the regulation of slaves. The rhetoric of complete annihilation, such as in the commands from God to destroy the Canaanites, can appear harsh and unforgiving. Is it genocide or just? Similarly, the practice of slavery, as regulated and depicted in various Old Testament laws, seems incompatible with modern principles of freedom and equality. In this paper, I will address and calm these concerns decisively.