◄ Deuteronomy 15 ►
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The Seventh Year (Exodus 23:10–13; Leviticus 25:1–7) 1At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. 2This is the manner of remission: Every creditor shall cancel what he has loaned to his neighbor. He is not to collect anything from his neighbor or brother, because the LORD’s time of release has been proclaimed. 3You may collect something from a foreigner, but you must forgive whatever your brother owes you. 4There will be no poor among you, however, because the LORD will surely bless you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you to possess as an inheritance, 5if only you obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commandments I am giving you today. 6When the LORD your God blesses you as He has promised, you will lend to many nations but borrow from none; you will rule over many nations but be ruled by none. Generosity in Lending and Giving (Matthew 6:1–4) 7If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, then you are not to hardena your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. 8Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs. 9Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought in your heart: “The seventh year, the year of release, is near,” so that you look upon your poor brother begrudgingly and give him nothing. He will cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin. 10Give generously to him, and do not let your heart be grieved when you do so. And because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything to which you put your hand. 11For there will never cease to be poor in the land; that is why I am commanding you to open wide your hand to your brother and to the poor and needy in your land. Hebrew Servants (Exodus 21:1–11) 12If a fellow Hebrew, a man or a woman, is soldb to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you must set him free. 13And when you release him, do not send him away empty-handed. 14You are to furnish him liberally from your flock, your threshing floor, and your winepress. You shall give to him as the LORD your God has blessed you. 15Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you; that is why I am giving you this command today. 16But if your servant says to you, ‘I do not want to leave you,’ because he loves you and your household and is well off with you, 17then take an awl and pierce it through his ear into the door, and he will become your servant for life. And treat your maidservant the same way. 18Do not regard it as a hardship to set your servant free, because his six years of service were worth twice the wages of a hired hand. And the LORD your God will bless you in all you do. Firstborn Animals (Exodus 13:1–16) 19You must set apart to the LORD your God every firstborn male produced by your herds and flocks. You are not to put the firstborn of your oxen to work, nor are you to shear the firstborn of your flock. 20Each year you and your household are to eat it before the LORD your God in the place the LORD will choose. 21But if an animal has a defect, is lame or blind, or has any serious flaw, you must not sacrifice it to the LORD your God. 22Eat it within your gates; both the ceremonially unclean and clean may eat it as they would a gazelle or a deer. 23But you must not eat the blood; pour it on the ground like water. Footnotes: 7 a Or make strong or make courageous 12 b Or sells himself Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Deuteronomy 15 Summary The Seventh Year Verses 1–6 – Release of Debts Every seventh year all loans within Israel are cancelled. “Every creditor shall cancel what he has loaned to his neighbor…because the LORD’s time of release has been proclaimed” (v. 2). Foreign debts may still be collected (v. 3), yet debts among fellow Israelites are erased. If the nation obeys, “there will…be no poor among you” (v. 4) and Israel will lend rather than borrow (v. 6). Verses 7–11 – Open-Handed Generosity No one may refuse help to a needy brother, even when the year of release is near. “You are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs” (v. 8). Stinginess is called “wicked” (v. 9). Generosity brings blessing, and the people are told, “For there will never cease to be poor people in the land…open your hand to your brother” (v. 11). Verses 12–18 – Liberation of Hebrew Servants A Hebrew servant works six years and must be released in the seventh. The master must send him away with livestock, grain, and wine (vv. 13–14). If the servant loves his master and chooses to stay, his ear is pierced to the doorpost, making him a servant for life (vv. 16–17). Releasing a servant is not to be viewed as a burden; God promises to bless the obedient master (v. 18). Verses 19–23 – Firstborn Consecrated Every firstborn male of herd and flock belongs to the LORD. It is sacrificed and eaten at the chosen worship place (vv. 19–20). A blemished firstborn is not offered but may be eaten at home like wild game (v. 22). Blood, however, must be poured out (v. 23). Deuteronomy 15 showcases God's instructions to the Israelites on how to uphold the values of generosity, care for the less fortunate, and ensure economic justice in the society they were about to establish in the Promised Land. By emphasizing debt cancellation, the release of slaves, and the ethical treatment of the poor, the chapter underscores God's deep concern for social justice. ________________________________________ Background: The Sabbatical Rhythm The seventh-year release mirrors the weekly Sabbath (Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 20:8-11) and the land-rest cycle (Exodus 23:10-11; Leviticus 25:1-7). By canceling debts, Israel pauses economic striving, trusts God for provision, and reminds itself that both land and wealth ultimately belong to the LORD (Psalm 24:1). Debt Release: Logistics and Limits • Applies only to unsecured personal loans within Israel. • Commercial trade and foreign credit remain unaffected (v. 3), enabling Israel to function in wider markets while safeguarding the vulnerable at home. • The word translated “release” (šĕmittâ) literally means “letting drop,” picturing an open hand and a loosened grasp. Economic Mercy vs. Foreign Commerce Israel is called to radical mercy toward fellow covenant members yet permitted normal business rules with outsiders. This balance preserves internal solidarity while keeping the nation economically viable. Proverbs 22:7 warns, “the borrower is slave to the lender”; Deuteronomy 15 counters by preventing Israelites from enslaving one another through perpetual debt. Heart Attitudes Toward Poverty God addresses motives as much as actions. Refusing to lend because the release year is near is labelled sin (v. 9). Later prophets echo this standard—see Isaiah 58:6-10 and Zechariah 7:9-10. Jesus recasts it: “Give to the one who asks you” (Matthew 5:42); Paul urges cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). Hebrew Servitude and Freedom Servitude here is time-limited indenture, not lifelong chattel slavery. It functioned as a bankruptcy law: a person sold labor to repay debts. Key protections: • Six-year maximum (v. 12; cf. Exodus 21:2). • Generous severance gifts (vv. 13-14). • Equal application to male and female servants (v. 17). • Voluntary lifelong service requires the servant’s consent. The Doorpost and the Awl Piercing the ear to the doorpost ties the servant permanently to the household. Psalm 40:6 alludes to ears “opened” (dug or pierced) for obedience; Hebrews 10:5-10 applies that imagery to Christ, the willing servant whose body became the ultimate offering. Firstborn and Worship Setting apart firstborn livestock recalls the Passover rescue (Exodus 13:1-2, 12-15). It affirms God’s claim on “the first and best.” Defective animals are eaten locally, protecting purity of worship while preventing waste. The blood prohibition (v. 23) echoes Genesis 9:4 and Leviticus 17:10-14, underscoring that life belongs to God. Archaeology and Ancient Practice • Nuzi tablets (15th cent. BC) show similar debt manumission after six years, illustrating a well-known Near-Eastern pattern that Israel now anchors in covenant with Yahweh. • Ostraca from Samaria mention “Year of Release,” indicating the law’s ongoing recognition. • Evidence of pierced ears in Egyptian servant figurines parallels the lifelong-servant ritual. Prophetic Echoes and Messianic Overtones Isaiah 61:1-2 announces “the year of the LORD’s favor,” language Jesus claims in Luke 4:18-19. The Jubilee (Leviticus 25) and sabbatical release prefigure the spiritual freedom Christ provides—debts cancelled (Colossians 2:13-14) and captives liberated (John 8:36). Practical Takeaways for Today • Practice rhythmic rest—regular pauses remind us that provision is God’s gift, not mere product of labor. • Hold money loosely; seek ways to cancel, reduce, or restructure burdens that trap others. • Give proactively, not reluctantly, trusting “the LORD your God will bless you in all your work” (v. 10). • Remember salvation’s cost: we have been redeemed from slavery (v. 15; 1 Peter 1:18-19); therefore, we treat others with that same liberating grace. Connections to Additional Scriptures Leviticus 25:10 The concept of the Jubilee year, which also emphasizes release and restoration. Matthew 6:12 Jesus' teaching on forgiveness in the Lord's Prayer. Luke 4:18-19 Jesus' proclamation of freedom and good news to the poor. Acts 4:32-35 The early church's practice of sharing possessions and caring for the needy. Teaching Points The Year of Release Deuteronomy 15:1-2 describes the commandment to cancel debts every seven years. This practice underscores the importance of mercy and the prevention of perpetual poverty: At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel the loan he has made to his fellow Israelite. God's Provision and Promise Verses 4-6 emphasize that obedience to God's commands will lead to His blessing and provision: There will be no poor among you, however, because the LORD will surely bless you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you to possess as an inheritance. Open-Handed Generosity Verses 7-11 call for open-hearted generosity towards the poor, highlighting the need for compassion and action: If there is a poor man among your brothers...you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. Release of Hebrew Slaves Verses 12-15 discuss the release of Hebrew slaves in the seventh year, reminding the Israelites of their own deliverance from Egypt and encouraging them to act with kindness and fairness. Voluntary Servitude Verses 16-17 provide for the possibility of a slave choosing to remain with their master out of love, illustrating a relationship based on mutual respect and affection. Practical Applications Practice Forgiveness Consider how you can apply the principle of debt forgiveness in your own life, whether through financial means or relational forgiveness. Cultivate Generosity Look for opportunities to be generous with your resources, time, and talents, especially towards those in need. Reflect on God's Provision Trust in God's promise to provide for your needs as you obey His commands and live out His principles. Value Freedom and Justice Advocate for justice and freedom in your community, remembering the importance of treating others with dignity and respect. People 1. The LORD your God The divine authority who commands the observance of the Sabbatical Year and the release of debts. The Hebrew name used here is "YHWH" (יְהוָה), which is the covenant name of God. 2. Your fellow Hebrew Refers to a fellow Israelite, specifically mentioned in the context of releasing debts and freeing servants. The Hebrew term used is "עִבְרִי" (Ivri), meaning a Hebrew or an Israelite. 3. Your brother This term is used to emphasize the kinship and community among the Israelites, particularly in the context of lending and debt forgiveness. The Hebrew word is "אָח" (ach), meaning brother or kinsman. 4. The poor Individuals within the community who are in need and should be supported, especially during the Sabbatical Year. The Hebrew term is "אֶבְיוֹן" (evyon), meaning needy or poor. 5. A Hebrew servant A fellow Israelite who has become a servant due to debt or poverty and is to be released in the seventh year. The Hebrew word for servant is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which can mean servant or slave. 6. Your male servant and female servant These are individuals who serve within a household and are to be treated with fairness and released in the Sabbatical Year. The Hebrew terms are "עֶבֶד" (eved) for male servant and "אָמָה" (amah) for female servant. Places 1. The Land of Israel While not explicitly named in Deuteronomy 15, the context of the chapter is set within the Promised Land, which the Israelites are about to enter. The laws given are intended to be practiced in this land, emphasizing a society built on justice and compassion. 2. The Assembly of the LORD Implicit in the text is the gathering of the Israelites as a community under God's covenant. The laws are meant to be observed by the entire assembly, reflecting a collective responsibility to uphold God's commandments. 3. The Cities of Refuge Although not directly mentioned in this chapter, the concept of cities of refuge is part of the broader legal and social structure within which these laws operate. These cities provided a place of safety and justice, aligning with the themes of mercy and redemption found in Deuteronomy 15. In summary, while Deuteronomy 15 does not list specific places, it is set within the context of the Israelite community in the Promised Land, emphasizing the importance of societal laws that reflect God's justice and mercy. Events 1. The Year of Release (Shemitah) Commanded Deuteronomy 15:1-2 describes the commandment for the Year of Release, known as Shemitah. Every seventh year, debts are to be canceled. The Hebrew root for "release" is "שְׁמִטָּה" (shemittah), which signifies letting go or release. The passage states: "At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel the loan he has made to his fellow Israelite." 2. Release for Fellow Israelites In Deuteronomy 15:3, the text specifies that the release applies to fellow Israelites, not to foreigners. The verse reads: "You may collect something from a foreigner, but you must forgive whatever your brother owes you." 3. Promise of Blessing for Obedience Deuteronomy 15:4-6 promises blessings for obedience to this command. The passage emphasizes that there will be no poor among the Israelites if they obey God's commands, as He will bless them abundantly. The text states: "There will be no poor among you, however, because the LORD will surely bless you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you to possess as an inheritance." 4. Open-Handed Generosity Encouraged Verses 7-11 encourage generosity towards the poor. The Israelites are instructed not to harden their hearts or close their hands against their poor brothers. The Hebrew root for "open" is "פָּתַח" (pathach), meaning to open or loosen. The passage includes: "If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother." 5. Release of Hebrew Servants Deuteronomy 15:12-15 addresses the release of Hebrew servants after six years of service. In the seventh year, they are to be set free, and the master is to provide generously for them. The text states: "If a fellow Hebrew, a man or woman, is sold to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you must set him free." 6. Willing Servants and the Ritual of Piercing Verses 16-17 describe the procedure if a servant chooses to remain with the master out of love. The master is to pierce the servant's ear as a sign of lifelong service. The passage reads: "But if your servant says to you, 'I do not want to leave you,' because he loves you and your household and is well off with you, then take an awl and pierce it through his ear into the door, and he will be your servant for life." 7. Generosity in Setting Servants Free Deuteronomy 15:18 encourages masters not to view the release of servants as a hardship, reminding them of the value of the servant's work. The text states: "Do not regard it as a hardship to set your servant free, because his service to you these six years has been worth twice the wages of a hired hand, and the LORD your God will bless you in everything you do." 8. Consecration of Firstborn Animals Verses 19-23 instruct the Israelites to consecrate the firstborn males of their herds and flocks to the LORD. They are not to work the firstborn of their oxen or shear the firstborn of their sheep. The passage includes: "You must set apart to the LORD your God every firstborn male of your herds and flocks. Do not put the firstborn of your oxen to work or shear the firstborn of your sheep." Lessons from Deuteronomy 15 1. Embrace the Year of Release Deuteronomy 15 introduces the concept of the Year of Release, a time when debts are forgiven. This principle teaches us the importance of mercy and grace in our lives. Just as God commanded the Israelites to release their fellow men from debts, we too are called to forgive and let go of grievances. "At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts" (Deuteronomy 15:1). This practice not only fosters community but also reflects the grace we receive through Christ. 2. Cultivate a Generous Heart Generosity is a recurring theme in Deuteronomy 15. We are encouraged to open our hands wide to those in need. "If there is a poor man among your brothers... you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand" (Deuteronomy 15:7). This lesson reminds us that our resources are not just for our own benefit but are meant to bless others, reflecting God's abundant provision. 3. Trust in God's Provision The chapter reassures us that when we follow God's commands, He will bless us abundantly. "For the LORD your God will bless you as He has promised" (Deuteronomy 15:6). This is a call to trust in God's provision, knowing that He is faithful to meet our needs when we live according to His will. 4. Practice Compassionate Lending Deuteronomy 15 encourages lending to those in need without expecting repayment. "You shall lend to many nations but borrow from none" (Deuteronomy 15:6). This principle teaches us to be compassionate and selfless, reflecting the love of Christ who gave freely without expecting anything in return. 5. Recognize the Blessing of Obedience Obedience to God's commands brings blessings. "If only you obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commands" (Deuteronomy 15:5). This lesson underscores the importance of aligning our lives with God's Word, trusting that His ways lead to true prosperity and peace. 6. Address Poverty with Action The chapter acknowledges the reality of poverty and calls us to action. "There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded" (Deuteronomy 15:11). This is a reminder that our faith should be active, prompting us to address the needs of those around us with compassion and generosity. 7. Release with Joy When releasing servants in the seventh year, the Israelites were instructed to do so with joy and generosity. "Do not regard it as a hardship... because his service to you these six years has been worth twice as much" (Deuteronomy 15:18). This teaches us to let go of what we hold onto with a joyful heart, trusting that God will replenish and bless us in return. 8. Value Every Individual The chapter emphasizes the value of every person, including servants. "Do not send him away empty-handed" (Deuteronomy 15:13). This lesson reminds us that every individual is precious in God's sight, deserving of dignity and respect, and we are called to treat them accordingly. 9. Reflect God's Character By following the commands in Deuteronomy 15, we reflect God's character of mercy, grace, and generosity. "Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God redeemed you" (Deuteronomy 15:15). This is a call to live in a way that mirrors the redemption and freedom we have received through Christ. 10. Live with an Eternal Perspective Finally, Deuteronomy 15 encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that our actions have lasting significance. By aligning our lives with God's commands, we not only impact the present but also store up treasures in heaven. This chapter invites us to live purposefully, with our eyes fixed on the eternal promises of God. Topics 1. The Year of Release (Shemitah) Deuteronomy 15:1-2 discusses the commandment for the Israelites to observe the Year of Release every seven years. This involves canceling debts among the people. The Hebrew term "שְׁמִטָּה" (Shemitah) refers to this release or remission, emphasizing the importance of economic reset and compassion within the community. 2. Release of Debts Verses 3-6 elaborate on the specifics of debt release, stating that debts should be forgiven among fellow Israelites, but not necessarily with foreigners. This reflects the covenantal relationship among the Israelites and God's promise of blessing if they obey His commands. 3. Generosity to the Poor In verses 7-11, the text instructs the Israelites to be open-handed and generous to the poor and needy in their land. The Hebrew word "פָּתַח" (pathach), meaning "to open," is used to describe the attitude of generosity that should characterize God's people. 4. Release of Hebrew Servants Verses 12-15 address the release of Hebrew servants after six years of service. The passage emphasizes treating servants with dignity and providing for them liberally upon their release, reflecting God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt. 5. Willing Servants In verses 16-17, the text provides instructions for servants who choose to remain with their masters out of love. The Hebrew word "אָהַב" (ahav), meaning "to love," highlights the voluntary and relational aspect of this decision. 6. Consecration of Firstborn Animals Verses 19-23 discuss the consecration of firstborn male animals to the Lord. This practice is a reminder of God's deliverance and provision, and the Hebrew term "קָדַשׁ" (qadash), meaning "to consecrate" or "to set apart," underscores the sacredness of this act. Themes 1. Sabbatical Year and Debt Release Deuteronomy 15 introduces the concept of the Sabbatical Year, where every seven years debts are to be forgiven. This theme emphasizes God's provision and mercy, ensuring that the community supports one another and that no one remains in perpetual debt. The Hebrew term "שְׁמִטָּה" (shemittah) refers to this release, highlighting a cycle of renewal and rest. 2. Generosity and Open-Handedness The chapter encourages generosity towards the poor, urging the Israelites to be open-handed and willing to lend to those in need. Verses 7-8 state, "If there is a poor man among your brothers... you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother." This theme underscores the importance of compassion and the moral obligation to support the less fortunate. 3. Blessings for Obedience Obedience to God's commands, including the release of debts and care for the poor, is linked to blessings. Verse 6 promises, "For the LORD your God will bless you as He has promised," indicating that adherence to these laws results in divine favor and prosperity. The Hebrew root "בָּרַךְ" (barak) for "bless" signifies a bestowal of divine favor. 4. The Permanence of Poverty While the chapter calls for the alleviation of poverty, it acknowledges its ongoing presence. Verse 11 states, "For there will never cease to be poor in the land," which reflects a realistic understanding of societal dynamics. This theme highlights the continuous need for compassion and action to address poverty. 5. Servitude and Freedom The chapter also addresses the treatment of Hebrew servants, emphasizing their release in the seventh year. Verses 12-15 discuss the fair treatment and provision for servants upon their release, reflecting God's justice and care for all individuals. The Hebrew word "עֶבֶד" (eved) for "servant" underscores the dignity and rights of those in servitude. 6. Commemoration of Deliverance from Egypt The instructions for releasing servants are tied to the Israelites' own deliverance from Egypt, as a reminder of God's salvation and mercy. Verse 15 states, "Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you." This theme serves as a call to emulate God's redemptive actions in their own societal practices. 7. Voluntary Servitude Provision is made for servants who choose to remain with their masters out of love and loyalty. Verses 16-17 describe the process of voluntary servitude, which involves a public declaration and a symbolic act. This theme highlights the value of mutual respect and the personal agency of the servant within the community. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart of Generosity Ask God to cultivate a spirit of generosity and compassion within you. Seek Forgiveness and Reconciliation Pray for the strength to forgive others and seek reconciliation in strained relationships. Trust in God's Provision Pray for faith to trust in God's provision and guidance in your financial decisions. Advocate for Justice Pray for wisdom and courage to stand up for justice and freedom in your community. As we reflect on Deuteronomy 15, may we be inspired to live out these timeless principles of mercy, generosity, and justice in our daily lives. Answering Tough Questions 1. Deuteronomy 15:1–2 prescribes canceling debts every seven years—how would this not destabilize an ancient economy? 2. Deuteronomy 15:4 promises no poverty if God’s commands are followed—why did poverty still exist among Israelites historically? 3. Deuteronomy 15:6 suggests Israel would lend to many nations—what evidence supports Israel’s capacity for widespread lending in antiquity? 4. Deuteronomy 15:11 acknowledges the perpetual presence of poverty—does this contradict the earlier statement that there would be no poor? 5. Deuteronomy 15:16–17 allows perpetual servitude—how does this align with the broader biblical theme of liberation from bondage? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the concept of the sabbath year apply to modern-day debt and financial practices? 2. What attitudes are the Israelites warned against when dealing with the poor? How can we avoid these attitudes today? 3. How can we cultivate a heart of generosity in a consumer-driven society? 4. In what ways can the principle of releasing Hebrew slaves after six years guide our modern understanding of work and employee rights? 5. Why do you think God emphasized remembering their time as slaves in Egypt when instructing them about releasing their own slaves? 6. How can we apply the principle of providing for released slaves in our modern efforts to uplift and rehabilitate marginalized individuals? 7. How does God's command to treat firstborn animals reflect on the significance of offerings? 8. How can we strike a balance between being lenders and not borrowers while also maintaining a heart of generosity? 9. How do you think the concept of debt cancellation can be adapted in today's financial systems? 10. In what ways do you think society benefits when we uplift and support the poor and marginalized? 11. How can churches and communities emulate the values and principles set out in Deuteronomy 15? 12. What does it mean to you that God sees economic justice as an integral part of spiritual obedience? 13. How can we ensure that our efforts to help others are driven by genuine compassion and not just obligation? 14. What are some practical ways you can practice the values of generosity and compassion in your community? 15. Why do you think God included both guidelines for lending and the expectation that there should be no poor among the Israelites? 16. How can the principle of releasing and providing for slaves guide discussions on reparations and historical injustices in contemporary times? 17. What parallels can you draw between the consecration of firstborn animals and the concept of giving our best to God today? 18. How can we actively remind ourselves of God's past provisions in our lives to foster a spirit of gratitude and generosity? 19. In what ways does the modern world challenge or support the values presented in Deuteronomy 15? 20. Reflecting on this chapter, how will you personally commit to fostering a more compassionate and just society? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions