Deuteronomy 15:18

Do 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.

Study Bible

Do not regard it as a hardship
The Hebrew word for "hardship" here is "קָשָׁה" (qashah), which conveys the idea of something being difficult or severe. In the context of ancient Israel, releasing a servant could be seen as a financial loss, yet God instructs His people not to view it as burdensome. This reflects a divine principle of generosity and trust in God's provision. The command challenges believers to prioritize compassion and obedience over material gain, trusting that God’s ways lead to greater blessings.

when you set your servant free
The Hebrew term for "servant" is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which can mean a servant or slave. In the context of Deuteronomy, this refers to a Hebrew servant who has served for six years and is to be released in the seventh year. This practice underscores the value of freedom and the dignity of every individual, reminding the Israelites of their own liberation from Egypt. It serves as a call to remember God's deliverance and to extend that grace to others.

because his service to you these six years
The phrase highlights the period of service, which is significant in the Hebrew context. The number six often symbolizes incompleteness, leading to the seventh year, which is a time of completion and rest. This mirrors the creation week and the Sabbath principle, emphasizing rest and renewal. The servant's six years of labor are to be appreciated and honored, reflecting a fair and just treatment of those who work for us.

has been worth twice the wages of a hired hand
This comparison to a "hired hand" (Hebrew: "שָׂכִיר" - sakir) suggests that the servant's contribution is of great value. The servant's work is not to be underestimated or undervalued. This phrase encourages a recognition of the servant's dedication and the benefits they have brought, promoting a sense of gratitude and fairness. It also implies that the servant's release is not a loss but a fulfillment of justice and righteousness.

And the LORD your God will bless you
The promise of blessing is a recurring theme in Deuteronomy, where obedience to God's commands results in divine favor. The Hebrew word for "bless" is "בָּרַךְ" (barak), which means to kneel, implying a bestowal of favor and prosperity. This assurance from God encourages believers to act in faith, knowing that God rewards those who follow His statutes. It reinforces the idea that God's economy operates on principles of generosity and trust.

in all you do
This phrase encompasses every aspect of life, suggesting that God's blessing is not limited to specific areas but is holistic. The Hebrew word "כֹּל" (kol) means "all" or "every," indicating the comprehensive nature of God's provision. This promise serves as a motivation for believers to integrate their faith into every action, trusting that God’s favor will permeate all endeavors when they align with His will.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
- The chosen people of God, receiving the laws and commandments as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. Servants
- Individuals who served their masters for six years and were to be set free in the seventh year.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
- The covenant God of Israel, who promises blessings for obedience.

5. Promised Land
- The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are preparing to enter and settle.

Teaching Points

Value of Service
Recognize the worth and dignity of every individual's labor. The servant's work is valued at twice that of a hired hand, highlighting the importance of fair treatment and appreciation.

Obedience and Blessing
Understand that God's blessings are tied to obedience. Setting the servant free is an act of obedience that leads to divine favor.

Freedom and Responsibility
Embrace the concept of freedom with responsibility. Just as the Israelites were to release their servants, believers are called to live in the freedom Christ provides, responsibly and generously.

Generosity and Trust
Trust in God's provision. Releasing a servant might seem like a loss, but God promises to bless those who follow His commands, encouraging a spirit of generosity.

Reflection of God's Character
Reflect God's character in our actions. By setting servants free, the Israelites mirrored God's justice and mercy, which believers are also called to emulate.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to release servants in Deuteronomy 15:18 reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of valuing others' work in our modern context, especially in our workplaces or communities?

3. How does the promise of blessing for obedience in this verse encourage us to trust God in our acts of generosity and justice?

4. What parallels can we draw between the freedom of servants in Deuteronomy and the spiritual freedom offered through Christ in the New Testament?

5. How can we ensure that our actions reflect God's justice and mercy in our daily interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-6
This passage provides the initial law regarding Hebrew servants, emphasizing the release in the seventh year.

Leviticus 25:39-43
Discusses the treatment of servants and the Year of Jubilee, reinforcing the concept of freedom and fair treatment.

Galatians 5:1
Paul speaks of the freedom believers have in Christ, drawing a parallel to the freedom of servants.

Matthew 6:33
Jesus teaches about seeking God's kingdom first, which aligns with the promise of blessings for obedience in Deuteronomy.