Deuteronomy 15:12

If a fellow Hebrew, a man or a woman, is sold to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you must set him free.

Study Bible

If a fellow Hebrew, a man or a woman, is sold to you
This phrase addresses the practice of indentured servitude among the Israelites. In ancient Israel, economic hardship could lead individuals to sell themselves into servitude to pay off debts. This was not slavery in the modern sense but a form of bonded labor with specific protections and rights. The term "fellow Hebrew" emphasizes the shared identity and covenant relationship among the Israelites, highlighting the importance of treating one another with dignity and respect. This practice is rooted in the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, where servitude was a common means of addressing poverty and debt.

and serves you six years
The six-year period of service reflects a structured and limited term, distinguishing it from lifelong slavery. This time frame is significant as it mirrors the creation week, where God worked for six days and rested on the seventh. It underscores the principle of rest and release, which is a recurring theme in biblical law. The six-year service period also aligns with the sabbatical year, a time of economic and social reset, as outlined in Leviticus 25.

then in the seventh year you must set him free
The seventh year represents a time of liberation and renewal, echoing the Sabbath principle of rest and freedom. This commandment is a reflection of God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, reminding the Israelites of their own liberation and the importance of extending mercy and freedom to others. The release in the seventh year is a precursor to the Year of Jubilee, a time of restoration and return, as described in Leviticus 25:10. This practice foreshadows the ultimate liberation found in Jesus Christ, who proclaimed freedom for the captives and the oppressed (Luke 4:18). The command to set servants free is a call to justice and compassion, reflecting God's character and His desire for His people to live in community with fairness and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hebrew Servant
Refers to a fellow Israelite who, due to financial hardship, sells themselves into servitude to pay off debts.

2. Israel
The nation to whom these laws were given, emphasizing community and compassion among God's people.

3. Sabbatical Year
The seventh year, a time of release and freedom, reflecting God's provision and mercy.

Teaching Points

God's Compassionate Provision
The law reflects God's heart for justice and compassion, ensuring that servitude is not perpetual but has a clear end.

Principle of Rest and Release
The sabbatical year is a reminder of God's provision and the importance of rest and renewal, both physically and spiritually.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites were called to care for one another, ensuring that no one remained in bondage indefinitely, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

Spiritual Freedom in Christ
Just as the Hebrew servant was set free, believers are reminded of the freedom they have in Christ, encouraging them to live in that freedom and extend grace to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the sabbatical year in Deuteronomy 15:12 reflect God's character and His intentions for His people?

2. In what ways can the principle of release and freedom be applied in our modern context, particularly in our relationships and community responsibilities?

3. How does the treatment of Hebrew servants in the Old Testament inform our understanding of justice and compassion today?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the physical freedom granted in the sabbatical year and the spiritual freedom offered through Christ?

5. How can we, as a church community, ensure that we are living out the principles of rest, release, and renewal in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-6
Provides similar laws regarding Hebrew servants, emphasizing the humane treatment and eventual release of servants.

Leviticus 25:39-43
Discusses the Year of Jubilee, a broader application of release and restoration, highlighting God's desire for freedom and equality.

Galatians 5:1
Speaks to the spiritual freedom believers have in Christ, drawing a parallel to the physical freedom granted in the sabbatical year.