This is indeed a challenging question, and Ellen White’s writings offer thoughtful guidance on how to approach it. Ellen White does not attempt to justify slavery or genocide as described in the Bible. Instead, she consistently condemns slavery as a “high crime” and teaches that God holds oppressors accountable. She draws parallels between the suffering of American slaves and the Israelites in Egypt, emphasizing that God hears the cries of the oppressed and acts on their behalf (1T 264; SWk 41.3, 42.1). She also states that if a master keeps a slave in ignorance and degradation, the master will be held responsible for the sins of the slave (EW 276.1; 1SG 192.1, 193.1). Ellen White highlights that the Ten Commandments are a “transcript of the divine character,” rooted in justice and mercy (SWk 42.1). The life and teachings of Jesus are presented as the clearest revelation of God’s character—one of compassion, justice, and mercy for all, regardless of race or status (SWk 57.1). She acknowledges that the Israelites, after centuries of slavery, were degraded and ignorant of God’s law, and that God worked patiently to educate and uplift them (SWk 41.3, 42.1). Over time, when nations or peoples rejected God’s mercy and warnings, they invited judgment (DA 584.3). Importantly, Ellen White calls the church to actively oppose all forms of oppression, including slavery, caste systems, racial prejudice, and the neglect of the poor and unfortunate. She describes these as unchristian and a serious menace to humanity, and says the church is appointed by Christ to overthrow them (LS 473.3). In summary, Ellen White sees the biblical record as a history of God working with fallen humanity, gradually revealing His will and calling people to higher standards of justice, mercy, and love. The ultimate standard is Jesus Christ, who calls His followers to reflect God’s compassion and justice in the world and to oppose all forms of oppression. If you would like more specific commentary on biblical genocide, or further exploration of how Ellen White addresses difficult Old Testament narratives, please let me know. **References:** - White, E.G. (1872). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 264. - White, E.G. (1882). Early Writings, p. 276.1. - White, E.G. (1864). Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 1, pp. 192.1, 193.1. - White, E.G. (1900). The Desire of Ages, p. 584.3. - White, E.G. (1915). Life Sketches, p. 473.3. - White, E.G. (1888). The Great Controversy, p. 22.2. - White, E.G. (1898). The Southern Work, pp. 31.2, 41.3, 42.1, 57.1. - White, E.G. (1884). The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 4, p. 22.2.