“It shall not seem hard unto thee, when thou sendest him away free from thee; for he hath been worth a double hire to thee, in serving thee six years: and the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all that thou doest.”– Deuteronomy 15:18 (KJV)
“Never consider it a hardship to set your servant free, because he has been worth double the wages of a hired worker. He has been serving you for six years, and the LORD your God will bless you in everything you do.”– Deuteronomy 15:18 (NLT)
“Don’t feel bad about freeing your male or female slaves. They have been worth double what they earned from you in six years of service. And God, your God, will bless you in everything you do.”– Deuteronomy 15:18 (MSG)
What Does Deuteronomy 15:18 Mean?
In Deuteronomy 15:18, we find a profound principle about fairness, mercy, and the heart of God towards those who serve us. This verse is a command given by God to the Israelites in relation to their treatment of hired servants or slaves. While the concept of slavery in biblical times is fundamentally different from the understanding we hold today, the essence of this passage invites us to reflect on the dignity and worth of every individual. God commands the Israelites not to view the act of releasing a servant as a burden or hardship, but as a duty of love and respect.
The wording of this verse emphasizes the value of the servant’s labor, stating that they have been worth double what they have been paid. Under this context, it is implied that serving someone for six years brings a significant return on investment. The guiding principle here is rooted in appreciation and gratitude. As we reflect on these ancient commands, we can glean valuable lessons for our own lives—concerning the way we treat others, acknowledging their hard work, and practicing generosity when the time comes to release them into their own freedom.
Deuteronomy 15:18 Explanation and Commentary
To further unpack this verse, we can consider the social context of ancient Israel. In those times, hiring servants or acknowledging slaves was a common practice. Many people found themselves in servitude due to debt or poverty, often working for a master for a set number of years. The servant would provide labor in exchange for protection and sustenance. By establishing rules around the fair treatment of these servants, God demonstrated that He cared deeply not only for their souls but also for their welfare.
The verse encourages us to see the worth of those who serve us, inviting us to treat them with kindness rather than viewing them as mere tools for our benefit. God recognizes the financial implications of setting a servant free, reminding us of the blessings associated with generosity. When we let go of something or someone, even if it comes with a cost, God assures that He will bless us in our future endeavors.
In essence, this response to the commandment of freedom reflects the deeper spiritual lesson: God desires us to reflect His kindness and mercy. Just as He has granted us freedom in Christ, we too are called to extend freedom and grace towards others. While the command is applicable to servants, we can broaden the scope of its message to our relationships—friendships, family ties, or any situation where we interact with others.
Context of Deuteronomy 15:18
Understanding the context of Deuteronomy 15:18 enhances its meaning. This verse is part of a broader discourse found in Deuteronomy 15, where God gives the law of redemption. The backdrop involves God reminding His people of the importance of compassion towards others, especially those who find themselves in difficult situations. These laws were intended to create a community centered on justice, mercy, and love.
This section of Deuteronomy is especially pertinent as it deals with the observance of the Sabbath year. Every seventh year, debts were to be canceled, and slaves were to be freed. If we consider the societal structure of Israel, these laws were crucial in ensuring that individuals could regain their footing and avoid generational poverty.
God’s intent is clear—His people are to reflect His character, demonstrating grace and generosity to those who have served them faithfully. By freeing servants, the Israelites were not only obeying God’s law but also participating in the redemptive process of reintegrating people into society. Each act of compassion echoes God’s heart for restoration and the value of human life, reinforcing that we are all created in His image.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Deuteronomy 15:18
The first important aspect we can break down is the phrase “it shall not seem hard unto thee.” This addresses the human tendency to view acts of generosity as burdensome, especially if they require us to let go of something we believe adds value to our lives. God challenges us to shift our perspective from how we see our possessions to how we can bless others.
Next, we have “for he hath been worth a double hire to thee.” This phrase reiterates the value of the work that the servant has done. It prompts us to consider our relationships—how often do we overlook the contributions of those around us? By affirming their worth, we open ourselves to recognizing them beyond the roles they play.
Finally, we see the promise that follows: “the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all that thou doest.” It’s a beautiful reminder that when we trust in God’s provision by being generous and kind, He will respond in love through blessings. This reassurance encourages us to be more willing in our acts of generosity, knowing that God rewards a cheerful giver.
Lessons to Learn From Deuteronomy 15:18
Several lessons emerge from Deuteronomy 15:18 that can guide us in our everyday lives. Firstly, we are reminded of the importance of treating others with respect and honor. Every individual has worth, and we must strive to show appreciation for the work and service of others. Let us be mindful not just in our words but also in our actions and attitudes towards them.
Secondly, the act of freeing someone reflects a broader principle about letting go and embracing change. Whether in friendships, workplaces, or communities, sometimes it is necessary to release individuals from obligations, allowing them to grow and flourish in their journeys. This can bring about a transformative process for everyone involved, promoting mutual growth and understanding.
Another vital lesson is learning to view our generosity through a lens of faith. Every time we give, let us not be constrained by the thoughts of what we lose but instead uplifted by the promise that God rewards those who give joyfully. A generous heart not only benefits others but enriches our own lives as we align ourselves with God’s purpose.
Final Thoughts
Deuteronomy 15:18 speaks profound truths about our treatment of others, the importance of generosity, and the spirit of freedom. May we embrace the lessons taught in this verse as we interact with those around us. Let’s remember that each person has intrinsic value, and our kindness can create lasting change.
If you’d like to explore more about such insightful teachings, we invite you to visit Bible Repository for a treasure of verses and commentaries. As we learn to embody love and grace in our daily interactions, may we be instruments of God’s peace and blessings, both to others and ourselves.