Jeremiah 34:10

So all the officials and all the people who entered into this covenant agreed that they would free their menservants and maidservants and no longer hold them in bondage. They obeyed and released them,

Study Bible

So all the officials and all the people who entered into the covenant
This phrase highlights the collective commitment of both the leaders and the general populace. The Hebrew word for "officials" (שָׂרִים, sarim) often refers to those in positions of authority or leadership. In the context of ancient Judah, these were likely the king's advisors or nobles who had significant influence over national decisions. The inclusion of "all the people" (כָּל־הָעָם, kol-ha'am) emphasizes a communal action, suggesting a widespread acknowledgment of the covenant's importance. Historically, covenants were solemn agreements, often sealed with religious rituals, indicating a deep spiritual and social commitment.

agreed that everyone should free his Hebrew slaves, male and female
The phrase "agreed that everyone should free his Hebrew slaves" reflects a return to the Mosaic Law, specifically the laws concerning the release of Hebrew slaves after six years of service (Exodus 21:2). The Hebrew word for "free" (שָׁלַח, shalach) implies sending away or releasing, which in this context is an act of liberation. This action was not merely a social reform but a spiritual renewal, aligning the people with God's commandments. The inclusion of "male and female" underscores the comprehensive nature of this liberation, ensuring that both genders were granted freedom, reflecting God's impartial justice.

so that no one should enslave his fellow Jew
The phrase "so that no one should enslave his fellow Jew" highlights the ethical and spiritual dimensions of the covenant. The term "fellow Jew" (אָחִיו, achiv) is significant, as it denotes a brotherly relationship among the Israelites, rooted in their shared covenant with God. This reflects the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor and treating others with dignity and respect. Historically, this was a radical move towards social equality and justice, challenging the prevailing norms of the time. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' own deliverance from slavery in Egypt, calling them to emulate God's mercy and justice in their own society.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. He is the author of the book and the one conveying God's commands.

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, during whose reign this event takes place. He is involved in making the covenant to release the slaves.

3. Officials and People of Judah
The leaders and citizens who entered into the covenant to release their slaves, demonstrating a temporary obedience to God's command.

4. Covenant
A solemn agreement made before God to release Hebrew slaves, reflecting a return to the laws given in the Torah regarding the treatment of slaves.

5. Slaves
The male and female Hebrew slaves who were to be set free as part of the covenant, in accordance with God's law.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
True obedience involves consistency and faithfulness, not just temporary compliance. Reflect on areas in your life where you may be obeying God only partially or temporarily.

The Importance of Covenants
Covenants are serious commitments before God. Consider the covenants you have made, such as marriage or baptism, and evaluate your faithfulness to them.

Freedom and Justice
God values freedom and justice, as seen in His commands to release slaves. Advocate for justice and freedom in your community, reflecting God's heart for the oppressed.

Remembrance of Deliverance
Just as Israel was to remember their deliverance from Egypt, remember your own deliverance from sin and let it motivate your obedience to God.

Repentance and Restoration
When you fall short, like the people of Judah, seek repentance and restoration. God's grace is available to restore us when we turn back to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the covenant to release slaves reveal about the spiritual state of Judah at the time of Jeremiah?

2. How does the concept of releasing slaves in Jeremiah 34:10 connect to the broader biblical theme of freedom and redemption?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of keeping covenants in our daily lives, especially in our commitments to God and others?

4. Reflect on a time when you obeyed God partially or temporarily. What steps can you take to ensure consistent obedience in the future?

5. How can the remembrance of God's deliverance in your life inspire you to advocate for justice and freedom in your community today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-11
This passage outlines the laws regarding Hebrew slaves, including their release in the seventh year, which the people of Judah were initially obeying.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Similar to Exodus, this passage reiterates the command to release Hebrew slaves after six years of service, emphasizing compassion and remembrance of Israel's own deliverance from slavery in Egypt.

Leviticus 25:39-46
Discusses the Year of Jubilee and the release of slaves, highlighting God's desire for freedom and restoration.

Jeremiah 34:11
Following verse 10, it reveals the people's disobedience as they took back the slaves they had freed, showing the inconsistency in their commitment to God's commands.