Deuteronomy 24:6

Do not take a pair of millstones or even an upper millstone as security for a debt, because that would be taking one's livelihood as security.

Study Bible

Do not take
The phrase "do not take" is a direct command, reflecting the imperative nature of the Mosaic Law. In Hebrew, the verb used here is "לֹא־תַחֲבֹל" (lo tachavol), which means "do not seize" or "do not take in pledge." This command underscores the importance of compassion and justice in financial dealings, emphasizing that certain items are essential for daily living and should not be confiscated.

a pair of millstones
Millstones were essential tools in ancient agrarian societies, used for grinding grain into flour. The Hebrew word for millstones is "רֵחַיִם" (rechaim), which refers to the two stones used in the grinding process. The lower stone was stationary, while the upper stone was turned to grind the grain. This phrase highlights the importance of preserving a person's means to provide for themselves and their family.

or even the upper one
The specification of "even the upper one" indicates the critical role of both stones in the milling process. The upper millstone, or "רֶכֶב" (rechev), was the movable part that crushed the grain. By prohibiting the taking of even one part of the millstone set, the law ensures that the debtor retains the ability to produce food, thus safeguarding their basic sustenance.

as security for a debt
The concept of taking items "as security for a debt" refers to the practice of pledging personal property as collateral. In Hebrew, the term "חָבֹל" (chavol) is used, which means to take a pledge or to bind. This practice was common in ancient times, but the law here sets boundaries to protect individuals from losing their means of livelihood.

because that would be taking
The phrase "because that would be taking" introduces the rationale behind the command. It implies a moral and ethical consideration, emphasizing the consequences of such actions. The Hebrew root "לָקַח" (laqach) means to take or seize, and it is used here to highlight the unjust nature of depriving someone of their essential tools for survival.

a man’s livelihood
The term "a man’s livelihood" refers to the essential means by which a person earns a living. In Hebrew, the word "נֶפֶשׁ" (nefesh) is often translated as "soul" or "life," but in this context, it signifies one's life-sustaining resources. This underscores the biblical principle of protecting human dignity and ensuring that individuals can maintain their basic needs.

as security
The repetition of "as security" reinforces the prohibition against taking essential items as collateral. It serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibility to consider the well-being of others in financial transactions. The law seeks to balance justice with mercy, ensuring that the vulnerable are not exploited.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The recipients of the law, God's chosen people, preparing to enter the Promised Land.

3. Millstones
Tools used for grinding grain, essential for daily sustenance in ancient Israel.

4. Debtor
An individual who owes a debt and is at risk of losing essential tools for survival.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, where the Israelites are heading, a place where they are to live according to God's laws.

Teaching Points

Respect for Livelihoods
The command not to take millstones as security underscores the importance of respecting an individual's means of survival. In modern terms, this could translate to ensuring that our actions do not deprive others of their ability to earn a living.

Compassionate Lending
This law encourages lenders to act with compassion and understanding, recognizing the humanity and dignity of those in debt. It challenges us to consider how we can support others without causing harm.

Justice and Fairness
God's law reflects His character of justice and fairness. As believers, we are called to uphold these values in our interactions, ensuring that we do not exploit or oppress others.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites were to live as a community that cared for one another. This principle applies today as we consider how we can support and uplift those around us, particularly the vulnerable.

Trust in God's Provision
By not taking essential items as security, the Israelites were to trust in God's provision for their needs. This teaches us to rely on God and not to hoard resources at the expense of others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prohibition against taking millstones as security reflect God's character and priorities?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of respecting livelihoods in our modern context?

3. How do the additional scriptures related to justice and compassion inform our understanding of Deuteronomy 24:6?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our actions do not harm others' ability to provide for themselves?

5. How can we cultivate a community that reflects the values of justice, compassion, and trust in God's provision?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:25-27
Discusses the prohibition against taking a poor man's cloak as a pledge, emphasizing compassion and justice.

Leviticus 19:13
Commands against oppressing one's neighbor, highlighting fair treatment and respect for others' livelihoods.

Proverbs 22:22-23
Warns against exploiting the poor, reinforcing the theme of justice and protection for the vulnerable.

Matthew 6:11
Jesus teaches about daily bread, connecting to the idea of ensuring basic needs are met.