Deuteronomy 15:2

This 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.

Study Bible

This is how it is to be done
This phrase introduces a divine directive, emphasizing the importance of following God's specific instructions. The Hebrew root here, "כִּי" (ki), often translates to "because" or "for," indicating a reason or explanation. This sets the stage for a command that is not merely a suggestion but a divinely ordained practice. Historically, this reflects the structured and orderly nature of God's laws, which were designed to promote justice and compassion within the community.

Every creditor
The term "creditor" in Hebrew is "מַשֶּׁה" (masheh), which refers to one who lends money or goods. This highlights the social and economic relationships within ancient Israelite society, where lending was a common practice. The inclusion of "every" underscores the universality of the command, leaving no room for exceptions. It reflects God's desire for equity and fairness, ensuring that all members of the community participate in this act of mercy.

shall cancel
The Hebrew word "שָׁמַט" (shamat) means to release or let drop. This is a powerful image of forgiveness and liberation, symbolizing the release of burdens and debts. In a spiritual sense, it mirrors the forgiveness that God extends to humanity, encouraging believers to emulate this grace in their interactions with others. The act of canceling debts every seven years was a radical economic reset, promoting social stability and preventing the accumulation of generational poverty.

what he has loaned to his neighbor
The phrase "what he has loaned" refers to the tangible expression of trust and support within the community. The Hebrew "מַשֶּׁה" (masheh) again emphasizes the act of lending, which was not merely a financial transaction but a relational one. "Neighbor" in Hebrew is "רֵעַ" (rea), indicating a close associate or fellow member of the community. This reinforces the idea of communal responsibility and the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships.

He shall not collect anything from his neighbor or brother
This command further emphasizes the prohibition against reclaiming debts during the year of release. The repetition of "neighbor" and the addition of "brother" (אָח, ach) highlight the familial and communal bonds that should transcend financial obligations. It reflects the biblical principle that relationships are more valuable than material wealth, and it calls believers to prioritize love and unity over personal gain.

because the LORD’s time of release has been proclaimed
The phrase "the LORD’s time of release" refers to the "שְׁמִטָּה" (shemittah), the sabbatical year, which was a time of rest and renewal for the land and the people. This divine proclamation underscores God's sovereignty over time and resources, reminding the Israelites that everything ultimately belongs to Him. It serves as a reminder of God's provision and faithfulness, encouraging trust in His timing and care. The "proclaimed" aspect indicates a public declaration, ensuring that the community is aware and accountable to this divine mandate.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving the law as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who establishes the laws and proclaims the time of release.

4. Creditor
An individual who has lent money or goods to another and is instructed to cancel debts.

5. Neighbor/Brother
Fellow Israelites who may owe debts, highlighting the communal and familial nature of the society.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Release
The concept of debt cancellation every seven years teaches us about God's desire for economic justice and compassion within the community.

God's Provision and Sovereignty
Trusting in God's provision allows us to release others from their debts, knowing that He is the ultimate provider and sustainer.

Forgiveness and Mercy
The practice of releasing debts is a tangible expression of forgiveness and mercy, which are central to Christian living.

Community and Brotherhood
The law emphasizes the importance of community and treating others as family, encouraging us to support and uplift one another.

Spiritual Freedom
Just as physical debts are released, we are reminded of the spiritual freedom we have in Christ, who cancels the debt of sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of debt release in Deuteronomy 15:2 reflect God's character and His intentions for His people?

2. In what ways can the principle of releasing debts be applied in our modern financial and relational contexts?

3. How does the practice of debt cancellation in Deuteronomy 15 relate to the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness and mercy?

4. What are some practical ways we can foster a sense of community and brotherhood in our own lives, as encouraged by this passage?

5. How does understanding our spiritual freedom in Christ influence our perspective on financial and relational debts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee, a time of release and restoration, similar to the debt release in Deuteronomy 15.

Matthew 6:12
In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches about forgiving debts, reflecting the spirit of release and forgiveness.

Luke 4:18-19
Jesus proclaims the year of the Lord's favor, echoing the themes of release and freedom found in Deuteronomy 15.

Romans 13:8
Paul speaks about the ongoing debt of love, which aligns with the principle of releasing financial debts.

Galatians 5:1
Emphasizes freedom in Christ, paralleling the liberation from debt in the Old Testament law.