Deuteronomy 15:2

KJV

And this [is] the manner of the release: Every creditor that lendeth [ought] unto his neighbour shall release [it]; he shall not exact [it] of his neighbour, or of his brother; because it is called the LORD'S release.

KJV (with Strong's)

And this is the manner {H1697} of the release {H8059}: Every creditor {H1167}{H4874}{H3027} that lendeth {H5383} ought unto his neighbour {H7453} shall release {H8058} it; he shall not exact {H5065} it of his neighbour {H7453}, or of his brother {H251}; because it is called {H7121} the LORD'S {H3068} release {H8059}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is how the sh'mittah is to be done: every creditor is to give up what he has loaned to his fellow member of the community -he is not to force his neighbor or relative to repay it, because ADONAI's time of remission has been proclaimed.

Berean Standard Bible

This is the manner of remission: Every creditor shall cancel what he has loaned to his neighbor. He is not to collect anything from his neighbor or brother, because the LORD’s time of release has been proclaimed.

American Standard Version

And this is the manner of the release: every creditor shall release that which he hath lent unto his neighbor; he shall not exact it of his neighbor and his brother; because Jehovah’s release hath been proclaimed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 15:2 elaborates on the divine mandate for the "Year of Release" (Hebrew: *Shemitah*), a foundational law within Israel's covenant with God. This verse specifically commands that every seventh year, creditors must release their fellow Israelites from all outstanding debts. It prohibits the exacting of repayment from a "neighbor or brother," emphasizing that this remission is not merely a human custom but is intrinsically "the LORD'S release," reflecting God's character of mercy, justice, and provision for His people, ensuring economic equity and preventing perpetual poverty within the community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 15:2 is situated within a significant section of Moses' final address to Israel, specifically within chapters 12-26, which detail the statutes and ordinances that would govern their life in the Promised Land. This particular law on debt release follows the general command in [Deuteronomy 15:1](/deuteronomy/15-1 "Deuteronomy 15:1 - The Command for Release") to "make a release" at the end of every seven years. Verse 2 then specifies *how* this release is to be implemented, focusing on the creditor's responsibility. The verses immediately following, [Deuteronomy 15:3-6](/deuteronomy/15-3 "Deuteronomy 15:3-6 - Exceptions and Blessings"), provide crucial qualifications, distinguishing between Israelite and foreign debtors, and promising abundant blessings for obedience, thereby demonstrating God's reciprocal generosity. This law is part of a broader legal framework designed to establish a just and compassionate society under God's rule.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East, including Israel, was largely an agrarian society where economic stability was precarious. Crop failures, illness, or unforeseen circumstances could quickly lead to debt, often compelling individuals to sell their land, their children, or even themselves into servitude to repay obligations. Without intervention, this could lead to cycles of generational poverty and the concentration of wealth and land in the hands of a few, undermining the tribal land inheritance system established by God. The Year of Release, along with other social laws like the Jubilee ([Leviticus 25](/leviticus/25 "Leviticus 25 - The Year of Jubilee")), served as a divinely instituted social safety net, a periodic reset mechanism to prevent the permanent impoverishment of families and to preserve the original distribution of land and resources. It stood in stark contrast to the often harsh debt laws of surrounding cultures, highlighting Israel's unique covenant relationship with a God who champions justice and cares for the vulnerable.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 15:2 powerfully articulates several core themes central to the Deuteronomic covenant and God's character. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Compassion and Social Justice**, revealing God's profound concern for the poor and oppressed. The law is a direct command to prevent economic stratification and ensure that no Israelite would suffer perpetual indebtedness, reflecting God's desire for a community marked by equity and mutual care, as also seen in [Deuteronomy 24:14-15](/deuteronomy/24-14 "Deuteronomy 24:14-15 - Justice for the Poor"). Secondly, it demands **Trust in God's Provision**. For creditors, releasing debts required immense faith, trusting that God, who commanded the release, would supernaturally provide for their needs despite the financial sacrifice. This trust is explicitly linked to blessings promised for obedience in [Deuteronomy 15:4-6](/deuteronomy/15-4 "Deuteronomy 15:4-6 - Blessings for Obedience"). Thirdly, the law embodies the **Sabbatical Principle**, extending the concept of rest and renewal from the weekly Sabbath and the land's Sabbath ([Exodus 23:10-11](/exodus/23-10 "Exodus 23:10-11 - The Sabbatical Year for the Land"); [Leviticus 25:3-7](/leviticus/25-3 "Leviticus 25:3-7 - The Land's Sabbath")) to economic life. Just as the land rested, so too did financial obligations, emphasizing God's ultimate ownership of all things and His rhythm of grace. Finally, the phrase "because it is called the LORD'S release" highlights the **Divine Authority and Sacred Nature** of the law, making it clear that this was not merely a human custom but a direct, non-negotiable command from Yahweh Himself, reflecting His holy character and His vision for His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Release (Hebrew, _šĕmiṭṭāh'_):** This noun, derived from the verb *šāmaṭ* (to let drop, let fall, release), refers specifically to the remission or cancellation of debts. In the context of Deuteronomy 15, it denotes a complete cessation of financial obligation, not merely a deferment. It signifies a "letting go" or "dropping" of a claim, reflecting God's desire for a periodic reset that prevents the accumulation of perpetual debt and ensures economic freedom within the community.
* **Exact (Hebrew, _nāgaś'_):** The verb *nāgaś* means "to press," "to exact," "to demand payment," or "to oppress." Its use here strongly emphasizes the prohibition: the creditor is not merely advised but strictly forbidden from making any demand or exerting any pressure for repayment once the Year of Release has commenced. This highlights the binding and absolute nature of the release, protecting the debtor from any form of continued harassment or legal pursuit.
* **Neighbour / Brother (Hebrew, _rēaʿ_ / _ʾāḥ_):** These terms specify the scope of the law. *Reaʿ* refers to a fellow citizen, companion, or friend, while *ʾāḥ* means "brother" in a literal or metaphorical sense, encompassing fellow Israelites. The pairing emphasizes the communal and familial bond within Israel, clarifying that this law applies specifically to transactions between members of God's covenant people. It underscores the unique ethical standard expected within the covenant community, where mutual care and compassion supersede strict economic gain.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And this [is] the manner of the release:"** This opening clause serves as an introductory declaration, signaling that the subsequent text will provide the specific operational details and procedure for the "release" (the *shemitah*) previously introduced in [Deuteronomy 15:1](/deuteronomy/15-1 "Deuteronomy 15:1 - The Command for Release"). It sets the stage for the practical application of the broader principle.
* **"Every creditor that lendeth [ought] unto his neighbour shall release [it];"** This is the core command, directly addressing the creditor. It mandates that any loan made to a fellow Israelite must be forgiven or remitted when the Year of Release arrives. The phrase "lendeth [ought]" signifies any form of financial assistance or debt, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the required release. The responsibility is placed squarely on the lender to initiate or acknowledge this remission.
* **"he shall not exact [it] of his neighbour, or of his brother;"** This clause reinforces the previous command with a strong prohibition. It explicitly forbids the creditor from attempting to collect the debt from a fellow Israelite once the Year of Release has begun. The use of "exact" (Hebrew: *nāgaś*) implies not just demanding but also pressuring or oppressing the debtor. The repetition of "neighbour, or of his brother" underscores the intimate communal context and the specific application of the law within the covenant family of Israel.
* **"because it is called the LORD'S release."** This concluding phrase provides the ultimate theological rationale and divine authority for the law. The release is not a human invention or a mere social custom; it is designated as belonging to Yahweh Himself. This means it originates from His will, reflects His character, and is enacted under His sovereign authority. By naming it "the LORD'S release," God imbues the practice with sacred significance, making obedience an act of worship and trust in His provision and justice.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 15:2 employs several literary devices to convey its message with clarity and authority. The most prominent is **Legal Language**, characterized by its prescriptive and declarative tone ("shall release," "shall not exact"), which underscores the binding nature of the command. This is reinforced by **Repetition**, particularly the repeated use of "release" (or its cognates) and the double reference to "his neighbour, or of his brother," which serves to emphasize the specific target and comprehensive scope of the law. The phrase "it is called the LORD'S release" functions as a form of **Divine Naming** or **Attribution**, lending immense weight and authority to the statute by directly linking it to God's character and will. This also creates a sense of **Emphasis**, highlighting the sacred and non-negotiable nature of the *shemitah*. The verse also utilizes **Didactic Tone**, instructing the Israelites on how they are to live justly and compassionately within their covenant relationship, reflecting Moses' role as a teacher of God's law.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 15:2 is a profound expression of God's covenantal heart for justice, mercy, and the well-being of His people. It reveals a God who is not distant from the economic realities of His creation but actively intervenes to prevent oppression and foster a society marked by equity. The law transcends mere financial regulation; it is a theological statement about God's ownership of all things, His desire for His people to live in dependence on Him, and their responsibility to reflect His generosity and compassion to one another. It challenges the human tendency towards accumulation and self-interest, calling Israel to prioritize communal welfare and trust in divine provision over immediate gain. This principle of periodic release and economic reset foreshadows God's ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.

* [Leviticus 25:8-12](/leviticus/25-8 "The Year of Jubilee")
* [Nehemiah 10:31](/nehemiah/10-31 "Nehemiah's Covenant Renewal")
* [Matthew 6:12](/matthew/6-12 "The Lord's Prayer: Forgive Us Our Debts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the literal application of debt release every seven years may not directly translate to modern economic systems or Christian churches, the profound spiritual and ethical principles embedded in Deuteronomy 15:2 remain powerfully relevant for believers today. This passage calls us to cultivate a heart of radical generosity, compassion, and trust in God's unfailing provision. It challenges us to examine our attitudes towards wealth, debt, and the poor, urging us to avoid oppressive financial practices and to actively seek opportunities to alleviate the burdens of others, especially those within the household of faith. It reminds us that our resources are ultimately God's, to be stewarded in ways that reflect His justice and love. Furthermore, it encourages us to advocate for systems and policies that promote equity and prevent the perpetuation of poverty, aligning ourselves with God's heart for the vulnerable.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways does this passage challenge my understanding of personal wealth and financial responsibility?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater spirit of generosity and compassion towards those in financial distress in my community or church?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "release" others, whether through forgiveness, support, or advocating for justice?**
* **How does the concept of "the LORD'S release" deepen my trust in God's provision for my own life, even when it involves personal sacrifice?**

### FAQ
**Is the law of the Year of Release (Shemitah) still literally binding for Christians today?**

Answer: While the specific Mosaic civil law of debt release every seven years is not literally binding on Christians in the same way it was for ancient Israel under the Old Covenant, the underlying theological and ethical principles remain profoundly relevant. The New Testament emphasizes the spirit of the law over its rigid literal application, focusing on love, generosity, and justice. Christians are called to live out the *spirit* of the *Shemitah* by practicing compassion, avoiding oppressive lending, forgiving debts where possible, and trusting God for provision, rather than observing the precise legal mechanism of ancient Israel. The New Covenant transforms these commands into principles of grace and love, as seen in Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and generosity.

**What does it mean that "it is called the LORD'S release"?**

Answer: The phrase "it is called the LORD'S release" (Hebrew: *šĕmiṭṭah lādōnāy*) signifies that this law is not merely a human custom or a pragmatic social policy, but a divine institution. It means the release originates from God's character and will, is commanded by His authority, and is enacted for His glory and purposes. By naming it "the LORD'S release," God underscores its sacred nature and His active involvement in the economic and social life of His people. It implies that obedience to this law is an act of worship and trust in God's sovereignty and provision, demonstrating that He is the ultimate owner of all resources and the source of true justice and well-being.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 15:2, with its command for a periodic release from debt, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament *Shemitah* provided a temporal, economic release for Israel, Jesus brings about an eternal and spiritual release for all humanity. He is the true "Year of Jubilee" and the ultimate "LORD'S release." Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Christ has paid the debt of our sin, releasing us from the condemnation of the law and the bondage of spiritual slavery to sin ([Colossians 2:13-14](/colossians/2-13 "Colossians 2:13-14 - Forgiveness and Cancellation of Debt")). Just as the Israelite creditor was commanded to release his brother, so God, in Christ, has released us from an insurmountable spiritual debt that we could never repay ([Matthew 18:21-35](/matthew/18-21 "Matthew 18:21-35 - The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant")). Jesus' ministry inaugurated a new era of grace, proclaiming "good news to the poor... release to the captives... and to set at liberty those who are oppressed" ([Luke 4:18-19](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Inaugural Sermon")), echoing the very heart of the Old Testament release laws. In Christ, we find not just a temporary economic reprieve, but a complete and everlasting freedom from the greatest debt of all, enabling us to live lives of generosity and forgiveness, mirroring the boundless grace we have received from our Lord ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty for Our Riches")).

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

James 2:13

For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.

Luke 7:42

And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?

Luke 6:34

And if ye lend [to them] of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.

Luke 6:38

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

Nehemiah 5:7

Then I consulted with myself, and I rebuked the nobles, and the rulers, and said unto them, Ye exact usury, every one of his brother. And I set a great assembly against them.

Nehemiah 5:11

Restore, I pray you, to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their oliveyards, and their houses, also the hundredth [part] of the money, and of the corn, the wine, and the oil, that ye exact of them.

Matthew 18:25

But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.