In ancient times, Jewish texts from the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) do address the institution of slavery, particularly in the context of ancient Israelite society. These texts provide regulations and guidelines regarding the treatment of slaves and the potential for their emancipation. However, it's crucial to note that the concept of slavery in ancient times was different from the transatlantic slave trade that emerged much later.
In later historical periods, Jewish communities in various parts of the world found themselves in circumstances where they were enslaved by other ruling groups or were part of larger socio-economic systems that involved slavery.
In the diaspora, as Jewish communities settled in different countries, their legal status and treatment varied widely depending on the specific time and place. There have been instances of Jews owning slaves, but these cases should be understood within the broader historical context of the societies they lived in rather than as a definitive reflection of Jewish culture or religious teachings.
In contemporary times, Judaism rejects and condemns the notion of slavery and supports universal human rights and equality for all individuals regardless of their background or beliefs.