Deuteronomy 23:15-16
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This law isn't just about not returning a runaway slave; it’s a radical protection for the oppressed. It specifically implies that an escaped slave seeking refuge should not be returned, suggesting a divine mandate to protect those fleeing cruel injustice or seeking spiritual freedom.
“You shall not give up to his master a slave who has escaped from his master to you. He shall dwell with you, in your midst, in the place that he shall choose within one of your towns, wherever it suits him. You shall not wrong him.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage shifts focus to the treatment of outsiders, specifically a runaway slave seeking refuge within Israel. The laws that follow address how such individuals, potentially fleeing harsh masters or foreign oppression, should be welcomed and integrated, rather than returned to potentially dangerous situations. This contrasts with laws concerning those already within the Israelite community, emphasizing a special grace for those seeking a new life under God's protection.
This law might seem counterintuitive. Why would God's people be commanded to harbor escaped slaves? It turns out this wasn't about condoning disobedience, but about offering true sanctuary.
A Haven for the Oppressed
When we look closely at the context, this commandment wasn't a blanket protection for any runaway servant. Instead, it was specifically about those fleeing cruel or unjust treatment from their masters.
What happens when someone flees not just from a cruel master, but from idolatry towards the one true God? This verse touches on a profound spiritual principle.
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Sanctuary for the Seeker
Some interpretations strongly suggest this law had a spiritual dimension. It wasn't just about physical safety, but about spiritual freedom.
Understand the original words
ebed · Hebrew Noun
A person legally owned by another; in the context of the Mosaic law, it often refers to those in service or bondage, with specific provisions given for their protection and rights.
This verse shares the theme of protecting the vulnerable and oppressed, specifically commanding the Israelites not to mistreat or oppress the foreigner, mirroring the spirit of not returning an escaped slave.
Leviticus 19:33-34This passage directly parallels the command in Deuteronomy, emphasizing compassionate treatment for foreigners who reside among the Israelites, suggesting that escaped slaves, especially those seeking refuge, should be treated with similar kindness.
Matthew 18:21-22While a different context, Jesus' teaching on forgiveness, particularly the parable of the unforgiving servant, highlights God's immense mercy and the expectation that we extend that same boundless grace and protection to those who have wronged us or are in desperate need.
Philippians 2:3-4This New Testament passage calls believers to look out for the interests of others and not just their own, reflecting the principle behind Deuteronomy 23:15 of prioritizing the well-being and safety of an escaped slave over the claims of their former master.
clarkeDeuteronomy 23:15: "Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee:"
Thou shalt not deliver - the servant which is escaped - unto thee - That is, a servant who left an idolatrous master that he might join himself to God and to his people. In any other case, it would have been injustice to have harboured the runaway.
ellicottDeuteronomy 23:15: "Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee:"
Deuteronomy 23:15-16 .— REFUGEES. Thou shalt not deliver . . . the servant.—Even on Israelitish ground the escaped slave was free. Rashi adds, “Even a Canaanitish slave who has escaped from abroad into the land of Israel.”
This law isn't just about not returning a runaway slave; it’s a radical protection for the oppressed. It specifically implies that an escaped slave seeking refuge should not be returned, suggesting a divine mandate to protect those fleeing cruel injustice or seeking spiritual freedom.
This passage shifts focus to the treatment of outsiders, specifically a runaway slave seeking refuge within Israel. The laws that follow address how such individuals, potentially fleeing harsh masters or foreign oppression, should be welcomed and integrated, rather than returned to potentially dangerous situations. This contrasts with laws concerning those already within the Israelite community, emphasizing a special grace for those seeking a new life under God's protection.
This passage shifts focus to the treatment of outsiders, specifically a runaway slave seeking refuge within Israel. The laws that follow address how such individuals, potentially fleeing harsh masters or foreign oppression, should be welcomed and integrated, rather than returned to potentially dangerous situations. This contrasts with laws concerning those already within the Israelite community, emphasizing a special grace for those seeking a new life under God's protection.
"“You shall not give up to his master a slave who has escaped from his master to you. He shall dwell with you, in your midst, in the place that he shall choose within one of your towns, wherever it suits him. You shall not wrong him." — This law isn't just about not returning a runaway slave; it’s a radical protection for the oppressed. It specifically implies that an escaped slave seeking refuge should not be returned, suggesting a…
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Last reviewed October 2026
