Abstract
This approach analyses the legal and theological aspects of Manuel Ribeiro Rocha's bookEtíope Resgatado..., besides they political and economic backgroung. The author, a Portuguese priest and lawyer who lives in XVIII century Bahia, presents the circunstances of slavery in Africa and Brazil focusing its arguments on the legal status of the redemption of slaves, which would allow in the medium term their freedom. The Portuguese State could thus fulfill the Christian commandments, becoming an instrument of justice.
Justice; Old Regime; State; Slavery