Deuteronomy 15:16
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The verse highlights that a slave might choose to stay, not out of obligation, but from genuine love for their master and household because they are "well with" them. This suggests that the master-slave relationship, even in this context, could be one of mutual care and contentment, going beyond mere economic transaction. It points to the ideal of how people should treat each other, fostering an environment where even servitude could be based on affection and well-being.
But if he says to you, ‘I will not go out from you,’ because he loves you and your household, since he is well-off with you,
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage continues the discussion about releasing Hebrew servants after six years of service. It addresses the exceptional case where a servant, due to genuine affection for his master and household and a good life with them, chooses not to leave. This choice leads to a unique ritual where the servant permanently binds himself to his master's service.
What makes someone choose to stay when they could leave? This verse reveals a deeper kind of commitment.
The law in Deuteronomy 15 outlines freedom for Hebrew servants after six years. But this verse presents a beautiful exception: the servant who chooses to stay.
The Heart of the Choice
The reason given is powerful: "because he loves you and your household." This isn't about being forced or feeling trapped. It's about genuine affection and loyalty that goes beyond mere legal obligation.
This selfless love is a profound model for our own relationships, especially with God. When we truly love Him, our service isn't a burden, but a joy we choose freely.
What makes a 'house' a good place to stay? This verse points to a state of contentment that influences life choices.
The second reason the servant chooses to stay is key: "since he is well-off with you." This speaks to a state of well-being and contentment.
More Than Just Survival
This doesn't just mean having enough food. It implies a stable environment where the servant is treated justly, lives peacefully, and lacks nothing essential. It's a condition of flourishing, not just existing.
This is a powerful reminder of the blessings found in healthy, positive relationships and environments. When people feel genuinely cared for and valued, they are naturally drawn to stay and contribute.
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Understand the original words
ahab · Hebrew Verb
Refers to a deep, committed affection or devotion. In a biblical context, it often signifies loyalty, covenantal commitment, and a desire for continued relationship or union.
This passage describes the same scenario where a servant may choose to remain with their master, highlighting the voluntary nature of continued servitude.
Nehemiah 5:1-13This passage illustrates the dire economic circumstances that could lead to people selling themselves or their children into servitude, providing context for why a servant might choose to stay rather than face hardship.
Luke 15:11-24The parable of the prodigal son shows a son who has 'everything' in his father's house, mirroring the servant who is 'well with you' and loves his master's household.
2 Corinthians 9:7Calvin connects this principle of cheerful giving to the master's generosity in releasing the servant, suggesting that a willing and generous spirit is pleasing to God.
Matthew 18:25This parable discusses a servant who owes an insurmountable debt, relating to the economic desperation that might lead to servitude and the immense relief of freedom or a good master.
calvinDeuteronomy 15:12-18: "And if thy brother, an Hebrew man, or an Hebrew woman, be sold unto thee, and serve thee six years; then in the seventh year thou shalt let him go free from thee."
It shall not seem hard unto thee when thou sendest him away free from thee; for he hath been worth a double hired servant to thee, in serving thee six years: and the Lord thy God shall bless thee in all that thou doest.
Non sit durum in oculis tuis quum dimittes eum liberum a te, quia duplo secundum me…
gillDeuteronomy 15:16: "And it shall be, if he say unto thee, I will not go away from thee; because he loveth thee and thine house, because he is well with thee;"
And it shall be, if he say unto thee, I will not go away from thee,.... Out of his house, nor quit his service: because he loveth thee and thine house; his master and his family, and so loath to leave them, but chooses rather to stay with them than have his liberty; hence the Jews say (k), if his master has not a wife and children, his ea…
The verse highlights that a slave might choose to stay, not out of obligation, but from genuine love for their master and household because they are "well with" them. This suggests that the master-slave relationship, even in this context, could be one of mutual care and contentment, going beyond mere economic transaction. It points to the ideal of how people should treat each other, fostering an environment where even servitude could be based on affection and well-being.
This passage continues the discussion about releasing Hebrew servants after six years of service. It addresses the exceptional case where a servant, due to genuine affection for his master and household and a good life with them, chooses not to leave. This choice leads to a unique ritual where the servant permanently binds himself to his master's service.
This passage continues the discussion about releasing Hebrew servants after six years of service. It addresses the exceptional case where a servant, due to genuine affection for his master and household and a good life with them, chooses not to leave. This choice leads to a unique ritual where the servant permanently binds himself to his master's service.
"But if he says to you, ‘I will not go out from you,’ because he loves you and your household, since he is well-off with you," — The verse highlights that a slave might choose to stay, not out of obligation, but from genuine love for their master and household because they are "well with" them. This suggests that the master-…
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Last reviewed October 2026
