Deuteronomy 15 explained: Debts, Release and Generosity

Debts released every seventh year (vv. 1-6)

Every seventh year, the same year the fields were left to rest, lenders had to stop collecting loans from fellow Israelites, though debts owed by foreigners could still be collected. The aim was that no one would sink into lasting poverty, and the LORD promises enough blessing to make up for what lenders gave up.

Lend even when it costs (vv. 7-11)

Lenders are warned not to refuse a poor neighbor just because the release year is near and they might never be repaid, since the poor person could cry out to the LORD against them. Verse 11 admits poverty will never fully disappear, which is why open handed giving is commanded, and Jesus echoes this line in the Gospels.

Freeing servants after six years (vv. 12-15)

People crushed by debt could sell themselves into service, a form of slavery, but a fellow Hebrew, man or woman, could be kept no more than six years. On release they were to be sent off with animals, grain and wine so they could start again, because Israel itself had once been enslaved in Egypt.

A servant who chooses to stay (vv. 16-18)

If a servant loved the household and wanted to remain, the master pierced the servant's ear against the door, likely a public sign of belonging to that house for life. Masters are told not to resent letting others go, since six years of unpaid work had been worth double what a hired worker would cost.

Firstborn animals (vv. 19-23)

The first male born to a cow, sheep or goat belonged to God, so it was not worked or sheared but eaten by the family at a yearly meal at the place the LORD would choose for worship. An animal with a flaw could not be offered and was eaten at home like wild game, but its blood had to be poured out, because blood stood for life.

Key verse: Deuteronomy 15:11

Where Christians differ

Interpreters differ on whether the seventh year release canceled debts permanently or only paused collection during that year, when no harvest came in.

Something to think about

What do you think a community owes people who fall into debts they cannot repay?