Deuteronomy 15:1-6

What does Deuteronomy 15:1-6 mean?

The "release" here wasn't just about debts; it was about actively giving to those in need, preventing poverty from becoming a permanent condition among God's people. It highlights that true release isn't just about cancelling obligations, but about fostering a community where everyone has enough.

“At the end of every seven years you shall grant a release. And this is the manner of the release: every creditor shall release what he has lent to his neighbor. He shall not exact it of his neighbor, his brother, because the LORD’s release has been proclaimed. Of a foreigner you may exact it, but whatever of yours is with your brother your hand shall release. But there will be no poor among you; for the LORD will bless you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you for an inheritance to possess— if only you will strictly obey the voice of the LORD your God, being careful to do all this commandment that I command you today. For the LORD your God will bless you, as he promised you, and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow, and you shall rule over many nations, but they shall not rule over you.

English Standard Version (ESV)

What Deuteronomy 15:1-6 means

This passage introduces a specific commandment regarding debt forgiveness, following the laws about the land resting in the sabbatical year. It reiterates the practice of a "release" every seven years, expanding on earlier instructions about releasing Hebrew servants and resting the land by now detailing the remission of debts owed to Israelites. The subsequent verses will clarify who is included in this release and the conditions under which it must be granted, emphasizing the importance of caring for the poor within the community.

A Cycle of Rest and Restoration

This wasn't just a one-time event, but a recurring rhythm. What was God building into the fabric of Israelite society?

Deuteronomy 15:1 announces a 'release' every seven years. This is tied to the 'sabbatical year' found earlier in the Law (Exodus 23, Leviticus 25). It wasn't just about forgiving debts, but also included a rest for the land and a release for Hebrew slaves.

Purpose Behind the Release:

Economic Reset: It prevented extreme poverty and debt from permanently enslaving individuals and families, promoting a more equitable society.
Social Well-being: It offered a regular opportunity for relief and renewal, combating the harshness that can come from relentless demands.
Spiritual Reminder: It served as a tangible sign of God's ownership of the land and His people's dependence on Him, pointing to a deeper, ultimate release.

Who Gets the Release?

The instruction about release has specific boundaries. Who was included, and who was intentionally left out?

While the 'release' primarily applied to debts owed by one Israelite to another, the text makes a distinction: 'Of a foreigner thou mayest exact it again: but that which is thine with thy brother thine hand shall release' (Deuteronomy 15:3).

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What Deuteronomy 15:1-6 means

The original words in Deuteronomy 15:1-6

releaseשְׁמִטָּה

shemittah · Hebrew Noun

Refers to the sabbatical year (shemitah) during which debts were canceled and land rested, symbolizing God's sovereign ownership of all things and His mercy toward His people. It reflects the principle of grace and the temporary nature of earthly burdens.

creditorנָשֶׁה

nasheh · Hebrew Noun

One who lends money or goods, often in a position of power. Biblically, those in a position to lend were commanded to act with compassion and justice, recognizing that all wealth ultimately belongs to God.

brotherאָח

ach · Hebrew Noun

One who belongs to the same covenant community, sharing the same faith and standing before God. This relationship demands a high standard of brotherly love, fair treatment, and mutual support in times of need.

foreignerנָכְרִי

nokriy · Hebrew Noun

Refers to one who is outside the covenant community of Israel. While the law permitted different treatment of foreigners regarding specific economic regulations, the broader biblical narrative calls for ethical treatment of the "sojourner."

poorאֶבְיוֹן

ebyon · Hebrew Noun

The state of being destitute or lacking the necessities of life. Biblically, poverty is seen as a condition that demands the care and generosity of the community, as God is the special protector of the poor.

blessבָּרַךְ

barak · Hebrew Verb

To bestow favor, prosperity, or divine benefit. It signifies God's active involvement in the lives of His people, providing not only material needs but also spiritual well-being and favor.

inheritanceנַחֲלָה

nachalah · Hebrew Noun

A portion or property received through divine promise or ancestral right. It signifies the security and stability granted by God to His people as His covenant possession.

obeyשָׁמַע

shama · Hebrew Verb

To hear and act upon; to submit to divine authority. Obedience in the Bible is active, not passive, involving a life aligned with God's revealed will and moral standards.

commandmentמִצְוָה

mitzvah · Hebrew Noun

A divine instruction or moral directive given by God for the well-being and holiness of His people. It is an expression of God's character and a path for life.

the LORDיהוה

YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun

The personal, covenantal name of God in the Old Testament, revealing His faithfulness, holiness, and self-existence. It is the name by which He entered into a special, redemptive relationship with Israel.

blessבָּרַךְ

barak · Hebrew Verb

The act of bestowing favor, prosperity, or divine approval upon someone. Biblically, it encompasses both material and spiritual well-being resulting from obedience and God's sovereign grace.