Philemon is a brief personal letter from Paul (c.55 or 61–63 CE) regarding a runaway slave, Onesimus. Paul appeals to Philemon to welcome Onesimus back 'no longer as a slave but as a brother' in Christ.

Author: Paul the Apostle.

Date Written: Circa 55 CE (if during Paul’s Roman imprisonment) or 61–63 CE.

Context: Unique for its personal appeal, Philemon exemplifies early Christian ethics about forgiveness and equality, and it reflects how the Gospel transformed social relationships.