← Back to Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy 15

23 verses

TL;DR

Deuteronomy 15 outlines the laws of the Sabbatical release year, caring for the poor, freeing Hebrew servants, and sanctifying firstlings, showing God's concern for justice and remembrance of Israel’s deliverance.

Summary

Chapter 15 establishes that every seventh year, all debts to fellow Israelites must be released, while foreign lenders may retain what they owe. The Israelites are commanded to help the poor, especially within their gates, without resentment, promising divine blessing for such generosity. The law also governs Hebrew servants: after six years of service, they are freed, and their master must provide them with food, wine, and cloth, recalling Israel’s own liberation from Egypt. If a servant refuses to leave, the master may bind him with an awl to remain for life. Finally, the firstborn male of every herd and flock is to be set apart for God, with a specified sacrifice and the prohibition of eating blood.

Outline
  1. Sabbatical year and debt release
  2. Compassion for the poor and communal responsibility
  3. Freedom for Hebrew servants and sanctification of firstlings
Themes
justice and mercycovenantal remembrancecommunity welfare
Keywords
Sabbath yearreleasedebtpoorHebrew servantfirstlingblessingawellremembrance of Egypt
People
GodIsraelitesHebrew servant (man or woman)
Places
the land given to Israelthe gates of the citiesthe place chosen by the LORD
Things
Sabbatical release yeardebtpoor personHebrew servantawlfirstlingswinepressflockfloorblood
Key Verses
  • Deuteronomy 15:1: Introduces the central concept of the Sabbatical release year.
  • Deuteronomy 15:7: Emphasizes compassion toward the poor and the promise of blessing.
  • Deuteronomy 15:15: Describes the freedom of Hebrew servants after six years.
  • Deuteronomy 15:19: Mandates the sanctification of firstborn male animals.
Questions
  • What is the theological purpose of releasing debts every seven years?
  • How does the command to aid the poor reflect Israel’s covenant identity?
  • In what ways does the law of freeing Hebrew servants echo Israel’s own liberation?
  • What is the significance of the firstling dedication to God?
  • How does the instruction to ‘remember the Lord’ influence Israel’s behavior?
Sentiment

mixed
The chapter balances harsh legal requirements with promises of blessing and themes of remembrance.