Deuteronomy 15:1

KJV

¶ At the end of [every] seven years thou shalt make a release.

KJV (with Strong's)

At the end {H7093} of every seven {H7651} years {H8141} thou shalt make {H6213} a release {H8059}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"At the end of every seven years you are to have a sh'mittah.

Berean Standard Bible

At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts.

American Standard Version

At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 15:1 introduces the pivotal concept of the "year of release" (Hebrew: *shemittah*), a divinely mandated seventh year within Israel's covenant calendar. This foundational statute commanded the remission of debts among fellow Israelites, establishing a periodic economic reset designed to prevent perpetual poverty, foster social equity, and cultivate a profound trust in God's sovereign provision. It served as a powerful reminder of Israel's unique identity as a people set apart by God, called to reflect His justice and compassion in their societal structures.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 15:1 stands at the beginning of a significant section (Deuteronomy 15:1-18) that outlines specific social and economic regulations for Israel as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. This chapter immediately follows commands regarding tithing and the care of the Levites and the poor (Deuteronomy 14:22-29), setting a precedent for communal responsibility. The "release" in 15:1 then introduces a series of laws concerning the poor, including the prohibition of hardening one's heart against a needy brother (Deuteronomy 15:7-11) and regulations for the release of Hebrew servants after six years (Deuteronomy 15:12-18). This placement underscores the interconnectedness of economic justice, compassion for the vulnerable, and the broader covenant obligations of Israel. The overarching discourse of Moses in Deuteronomy continually calls Israel to remember God's deliverance and respond with obedience, love, and the establishment of a just society.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The command for a "release" was deeply rooted in Israel's agricultural and covenantal life, reflecting a unique economic system distinct from surrounding ancient Near Eastern cultures. While some cultures had debt cancellations, they were typically royal decrees, often arbitrary, and not a regular, divinely ordained cycle. The *shemittah* year, also known as the Sabbatical year, applied not only to debts (as in Deuteronomy 15:1-11) but also to the resting of the land every seventh year, as detailed in [Leviticus 25:1-7](/leviticus/25-1 "Leviticus 25:1-7 - The Sabbatical Year for the Land"). This holistic approach ensured both ecological sustainability and social equity. In a society where debt could easily lead to perpetual servitude, this law provided a crucial mechanism for economic reset, preventing the permanent disenfranchisement of families and preserving the tribal land inheritances established in [Numbers 26](/numbers/26 "Numbers 26 - Census and Land Distribution"). It required immense faith, as creditors had to trust God to provide for them despite forgiving debts, and farmers had to trust God to sustain them despite leaving their fields fallow.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 15:1 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. It powerfully exemplifies God's character as just, merciful, and compassionate, particularly towards the poor and marginalized, a theme consistently highlighted throughout the Law (e.g., [Exodus 22:25-27](/exodus/22-25 "Exodus 22:25-27 - Laws Concerning Loans and Pledges")). The "release" underscores the theme of covenant faithfulness, demonstrating that Israel's obedience was not merely ritualistic but extended to their social and economic interactions, distinguishing them as a holy nation. It also reinforces the principle of stewardship and trust in God's provision, challenging the Israelites to prioritize divine commands over personal accumulation of wealth, echoing the lessons of the manna in [Exodus 16](/exodus/16 "Exodus 16 - Provision of Manna and Quail"). Furthermore, the concept of periodic "rest" and "release" points to the broader biblical motif of Sabbath, extending its principles from individual rest to the land and the entire societal economy, ensuring renewal and preventing oppression.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **End (Hebrew, _qetz'_):** This word signifies a definite conclusion or termination. In the context of "at the end of every seven years," it emphasizes the fixed, cyclical nature of this commandment. It's not an arbitrary or occasional act but a regular, predictable event embedded into the very fabric of Israelite life, signifying a complete cycle has run its course and a new one is about to begin.
* **Seven (Hebrew, _sheva'_):** The number seven holds profound theological significance throughout the Bible, often representing completion, perfection, or divine order. Its use here, in "every seven years," links the economic release to the creation week (seven days), the Sabbath (seventh day), and the Sabbatical year for the land. This numerical emphasis elevates the "release" from a mere economic policy to a divinely ordained rhythm, reflecting God's perfect design for rest, renewal, and justice.
* **Release (Hebrew, _shemittah'_):** Derived from the verb *shamatt*, meaning "to let go," "to drop," or "to release." In this specific context, *shemittah* refers to the remission or cancellation of debts owed by one Israelite to another. It implies a complete cessation of claim, a letting go of what is owed. While Deuteronomy 15:1 focuses on the debt aspect, the broader concept of *shemittah* also encompasses the resting of the land every seventh year (Leviticus 25:1-7), highlighting a comprehensive principle of cessation and renewal across all aspects of life under the covenant.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"At the end of [every] seven years":** This phrase establishes the precise timing and cyclical nature of the command. It indicates that the "release" was not an ad hoc measure but a regularly scheduled event, occurring at the conclusion of each seven-year cycle, mirroring the Sabbath principle. The inclusion of "[every]" in the KJV translation correctly conveys the repetitive and mandatory nature of this cycle.
* **"thou shalt make a release":** This is a direct, imperative command to the Israelites. The singular "thou" addresses the nation corporately and each individual within it, particularly those who were creditors. "Make a release" refers specifically to the act of remitting debts owed by fellow Israelites, signifying a legal and financial cancellation. This act was a tangible demonstration of their obedience to God's covenant and their commitment to social justice and compassion within the community.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 15:1 employs several key literary devices that enhance its impact and meaning. The use of **Legal Formula** is evident in its concise, declarative style, typical of covenant law, presenting a clear and unambiguous command. The phrase "At the end of every seven years" functions as a **Temporal Marker**, establishing a precise, cyclical rhythm for the law's application, which is a form of **Repetition** on a larger scale, reinforcing the importance of the Sabbatical cycle. The concept of "release" itself is a powerful **Symbolism**, representing not just financial liberation but also spiritual renewal, a fresh start, and the breaking of oppressive cycles. This symbolism extends to the broader **Covenant Language** of Deuteronomy, where obedience to such laws is directly tied to Israel's blessings and their identity as God's chosen people, reflecting His character to the nations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The command to make a release in Deuteronomy 15:1 is deeply interwoven with the broader theological tapestry of the Old Testament, particularly concerning God's justice, mercy, and the nature of the covenant. It reveals a God who is not only transcendent but intimately concerned with the social and economic well-being of His people, prioritizing human dignity over unchecked accumulation of wealth. This law served as a practical outworking of the "love your neighbor as yourself" principle, ensuring that no Israelite would be permanently enslaved by debt, and that the community would function with a built-in mechanism for equity and compassion. It challenged the Israelites to live by faith, trusting God's provision even when it meant personal financial sacrifice, thereby demonstrating that true security lay in divine favor, not material possessions.

* [Leviticus 25:8-10](/leviticus/25-8 "Leviticus 25:8-10 - The Year of Jubilee")
* [Nehemiah 10:31](/nehemiah/10-31 "Nehemiah 10:31 - Covenant to Observe the Sabbatical Year")
* [Jeremiah 34:12-17](/jeremiah/34-12 "Jeremiah 34:12-17 - Broken Covenant Regarding Release of Slaves")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 15:1, while rooted in the specific socio-economic context of ancient Israel, offers timeless principles for contemporary believers. The spirit of the "release" calls us to cultivate a heart of radical generosity and compassion, particularly towards those burdened by debt, poverty, or injustice. It challenges the modern inclination towards relentless accumulation and self-reliance, inviting us instead to embrace a mindset of stewardship where all resources are seen as belonging to God, to be managed for His glory and the good of others. This verse encourages us to periodically "reset" our priorities, releasing our grip on material possessions and trusting in God's abundant provision. It reminds us that true freedom and flourishing come not from endless acquisition, but from living in alignment with God's just and merciful character, actively participating in His work of bringing equity and relief to a broken world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might the principle of "release" challenge my own financial habits and attitudes towards wealth and debt?**
* **How can I practically demonstrate compassion and generosity towards those in financial need in my community, reflecting the spirit of this law?**
* **What "debts" (financial, emotional, relational) might I need to "release" in my own life, trusting God for the outcome?**
* **How does the concept of a regular "reset" or "rest" apply to my personal and professional life, beyond just finances?**

### FAQ
**What was the primary purpose of the "year of release" for debts?**

Answer: The primary purpose was to prevent perpetual poverty and the accumulation of wealth in the hands of a few, ensuring social equity and economic mobility within Israelite society. It provided a mechanism for a fresh start for those burdened by debt, reflecting God's compassion for the poor and His desire for a just community. It also served as a test of faith for creditors, requiring them to trust in God's provision despite forgiving debts.

**Did the Israelites consistently observe the year of release?**

Answer: Historical and prophetic texts indicate that the observance of the Sabbatical year, including the release of debts, was often inconsistent. Prophets like Jeremiah condemned Israel for failing to uphold these covenant stipulations (e.g., [Jeremiah 34:12-17](/jeremiah/34-12 "Jeremiah 34:12-17 - Broken Covenant Regarding Release of Slaves")). This disobedience was one of the reasons cited for their exile, as the land was said to "enjoy its Sabbaths" during their absence ([2 Chronicles 36:21](/2_chronicles/36-21 "2 Chronicles 36:21 - Fulfillment of Jeremiah's Prophecy")).

**How does this ancient law apply to modern economic systems and personal finance?**

Answer: While the specific legal framework of ancient Israel is not directly transferable, the underlying principles are profoundly relevant. It calls for a compassionate approach to debt, encouraging generosity, responsible lending, and advocating for economic systems that prevent extreme poverty. It also fosters a spirit of trust in God's provision over reliance on material security, promoting a mindset of stewardship where resources are used to honor God and bless others, rather than solely for personal accumulation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 15:1, with its emphasis on release from debt and the promise of a fresh start, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The earthly "release" from financial obligation foreshadows the infinitely greater spiritual release from the crushing debt of sin that humanity owes to God. Just as the Israelite debtor was set free, so too are believers liberated from the condemnation and power of sin through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross. He is the ultimate "release," the one who "canceled the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands" ([Colossians 2:14](/colossians/2-14 "Colossians 2:14 - Cancellation of Debt")). The Sabbatical year pointed to a periodic rest and renewal, but Christ offers an eternal rest for our souls, inviting all who are weary and burdened to find rest in Him ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). His declaration in [Luke 4:18-19](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Mission Statement") (quoting Isaiah 61) to "proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor" directly echoes the spirit of the *shemittah* and Jubilee, revealing Him as the one who inaugurates the true and eternal year of release, bringing forgiveness, reconciliation, and new life to all who believe.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 31:10

And Moses commanded them, saying, At the end of [every] seven years, in the solemnity of the year of release, in the feast of tabernacles,

Exodus 23:10

¶ And six years thou shalt sow thy land, and shalt gather in the fruits thereof:

Exodus 23:11

But the seventh [year] thou shalt let it rest and lie still; that the poor of thy people may eat: and what they leave the beasts of the field shall eat. In like manner thou shalt deal with thy vineyard, [and] with thy oliveyard.

Leviticus 25:2

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye come into the land which I give you, then shall the land keep a sabbath unto the LORD.

Leviticus 25:4

But in the seventh year shall be a sabbath of rest unto the land, a sabbath for the LORD: thou shalt neither sow thy field, nor prune thy vineyard.

Exodus 21:2

If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.

Luke 4:18

The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,