The Church's Role in Interpreting Scripture and the Abolition of Slavery

The church is fundamentally intertwined with the interpretation of the Bible, providing divine guidance to reveal deeper meanings that can lead to the abolition of slavery. Historical instances demonstrate a gradual condemnation of slavery by the church, illustrating a distinction between condemning specific cases of slavery and abolishing the institution as a whole. Key papal pronouncements from figures such as Pope Eugene IV and Pope Paul III reflect shifting attitudes toward slavery, emphasizing restrictions on enslaving fellow Christians and asserting the liberty of all peoples regardless of their faith. Ultimately, the writings of popes over the centuries imply a broader moral stance against slavery, with Pope Gregory XVI highlighting the ethical treatment of slaves and the universal principle of charity, acknowledging that actions toward the vulnerable are held in regard by Christ himself. This ecclesial hermeneutic allows the church to discern and declare the Bible's fundamental opposition to slavery, shaping its moral theology and social ethics.