LEV1076 Do not force a Jewish slave to do demeaning labor. Key concepts: A man must realize that our nation has a special, honored status that sets it apart from all other nations. Appreciating this point, one will feel love for our people and its Torah. Knowing that a Jew becomes a slave only after falling into dire financial straits, we should realize that the same thing might happen to us or one of our children. If we are not careful, a sin might cause our downfall and we, too, might be sold as a slave. If we treat our Jewish servants with proper respect, this thought will certainly cross our minds, which will serve to prevent us from sinning before Hashem. Another benefit is that the mitzvah teaches us to behave with mercy and compassion, and to distance ourselves from cruelty. Thereby, we cultivate and refine our souls, and make ourselves worthy of Hashem's blessings, which He always seeks to bestow upon us.