The Bible addresses slavery in various ways with several Old and New Testament passages recognizing and regulating it, but it does not explicitly condemn slavery as immoral or forbid it outright. In the Old Testament, slavery was a legally regulated part of society. For example, Exodus 21 and Leviticus 25 contain laws about owning slaves, including both Hebrew indentured servants (who could be freed after a period) and permanent slaves from other nations. Slaves could be treated as property, could be beaten (though there were some limits), and slave ownership was even seen as a sign of blessing by God in some contexts (Exodus 21:2-11; Leviticus 25:44-46; Genesis 12:16; Isaiah 14:1-2). Yet there were also instructions to treat slaves justly and protect the vulnerable, including widows and orphans, indicating concern for humane treatment (Deuteronomy 10:18; Isaiah 58:6-7).

The New Testament does not explicitly abolish slavery but instead offers guidance on how slaves and masters should behave toward each other. Slaves are urged to obey their masters (Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22-4:1), and masters are told to treat their slaves well. Although slavery as an institution is acknowledged, the spiritual unity of all believers regardless of social status is emphasized: "There is neither slave nor free... for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28).

The Bible also uses the concept of slavery metaphorically to describe spiritual states—such as being slaves to sin or to righteousness (John 8:34; Romans 6:16), highlighting a spiritual freedom through Christ.

In summary, the Bible permits slavery as an accepted social institution in its historical context, regulates how slaves should be treated, and promotes spiritual equality among all people, though it does not explicitly call slavery immoral or call for its abolition. Contemporary readers often grapple with the ethical implications, recognizing that biblical texts reflect ancient cultural norms rather than modern human rights standards.

This answer provides an overview based on scriptural references and theological reflections while acknowledging the complexity and historical setting of slavery in the Bible.