### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term mashsheh (מַשֶּׁה - `{{H4874}}`) is a noun derived from the verb nashah (נָשָׁה - `{{H5383}}`), which primarily means "to lend on interest," "to exact interest," or "to be a creditor." Consequently, mashsheh inherently signifies a "debt" or "loan." Interestingly, its semantic range extends to encompass both the object (the debt itself) and, when used in a construct phrase, the subject (the one to whom the debt is owed, i.e., the "creditor"). This duality is crucial for understanding its nuanced usage in the biblical text. It refers to an obligation, a claim, or money owed, often implying a financial transaction that creates a relationship between lender and borrower.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term mashsheh appears in the Hebrew Bible exclusively within the book of Deuteronomy, specifically in chapters 15:2 and 15:3. These occurrences are central to the Mosaic Law's provisions concerning the "year of release" (שְׁמִטָּה - shemittah - `{{H8059}}`).
* In [[Deuteronomy 15:2]], the word appears twice, showcasing its dual meaning. The phrase "בַּעַל מַשֶּׁה" (ba'al mashsheh), literally "master of a debt," clearly denotes the "creditor" who is commanded to release what he has lent. Immediately following, the verse uses "מַשֵּׁה יָדוֹ" (mashsheh yado), meaning "the debt of his hand" or "what his hand has lent," referring directly to the "debt" that is to be remitted. This verse establishes the divine command for the remission of debts among fellow Israelites during the Sabbatical year.
* [[Deuteronomy 15:3]] further clarifies this injunction, stating, "From a foreigner you may exact it, but whatever of yours is with your brother (מַשֵּׁה יָדְךָ - mashsheh yadkha) your hand shall release." Here, "mashsheh yadkha" again refers to the "debt" owed by an Israelite brother, emphasizing the distinction in treatment between an Israelite and a foreigner.
The consistent context in these verses is the socio-economic legislation governing the covenant community, particularly the protection of the poor and the prevention of perpetual indebtedness. The mashsheh in these passages is not merely a financial term but is deeply embedded in the ethical and communal fabric of Israelite society, reflecting God's concern for justice and compassion.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding mashsheh is enhanced by examining its linguistic and conceptual neighbors:
* **nashah (נָשָׁה - `{{H5383}}`):** The root verb from which mashsheh is derived. Its core meaning of "to lend on interest" or "to exact" directly informs the nature of the debt or the role of the creditor.
* **neshekh (נֶשֶׁךְ - `{{H5391}}`):** This term refers to "interest" or "usury," often forbidden among Israelites when lending to a brother. While mashsheh is the principal amount or the debt itself, neshekh is the forbidden increment.
* **tarbit (תַּרְבִּית - `{{H8636}}`):** Another term for "increase" or "usury," frequently paired with neshekh in prohibitions against exploitative lending practices.
* **lavah (לָוָה - `{{H3867}}`):** A more general verb meaning "to lend" or "to borrow." While lavah describes the act, mashsheh refers to the resulting financial obligation.
* **shemittah (שְׁמִטָּה - `{{H8059}}`):** The "release" or "remission," specifically the Sabbatical year, which is the direct legislative context for the remission of mashsheh. This concept highlights the divine institution designed to prevent economic oppression and maintain social equity.
* **ba'al (בַּעַל - `{{H1167}}`):** Meaning "master" or "owner." When combined with mashsheh to form "ba'al mashsheh," it designates the "creditor," underscoring the authority or claim held by the lender.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of mashsheh are profound, rooted in God's character and His covenant with Israel:
* **Divine Economy and Justice:** The command to remit mashsheh during the year of release reveals God's deep concern for economic justice and the prevention of perpetual poverty within His chosen people. It was a mechanism to redistribute wealth, prevent the permanent enslavement of the poor, and ensure that no Israelite brother would fall into irretrievable debt. This principle reflects God's own righteousness and His desire for a just society.
* **Brotherhood and Compassion:** The distinction between lending to an Israelite "brother" versus a "foreigner" (who was not under the same covenant obligations) underscores the unique ethical demands within the covenant community. Lending to a brother was to be an act of compassion and support, not an opportunity for exploitation. The remission of mashsheh was an act of mercy, mirroring God's own mercy towards His people.
* **Trust in God's Provision:** The command to release debts required a profound act of faith on the part of the creditor. It challenged the Israelites to trust that God would provide for their needs, even if it meant foregoing immediate repayment. This fostered a reliance on divine providence over human accumulation.
* **Foreshadowing of Spiritual Release:** While not directly prophetic, the principles of debt release and social justice embedded in the mashsheh passages can be seen as types or shadows of the ultimate spiritual release from the "debt" of sin. Through Christ, believers are released from the impossible spiritual debt owed to God, experiencing a profound and complete remission. This spiritual reality fulfills and transcends the earthly provisions of the shemittah year.
* **Ethical Imperative for Today:** The principles articulated through mashsheh remain relevant for contemporary believers. They challenge the Church to advocate for economic justice, practice generous stewardship, and engage in ethical financial dealings, discouraging predatory lending and promoting systems that alleviate poverty in accordance with God's compassionate heart.
### Summary
The Hebrew word mashsheh (מַשֶּׁה - `{{H4874}}`), derived from the root nashah (נָשָׁה - `{{H5383}}`), refers to both "debt" and, in the phrase "ba'al mashsheh," "creditor." Its exclusive occurrences in [[Deuteronomy 15:2]] and [[Deuteronomy 15:3]] place it firmly within the context of the Mosaic Law's "year of release" (שְׁמִטָּה - `{{H8059}}`), a divinely ordained remission of debts among fellow Israelites. The theological significance of mashsheh is profound, underscoring God's commitment to social justice, economic equity, and compassionate treatment within the covenant community. It highlights the importance of communal responsibility, trust in divine provision, and an ethical framework for financial interactions that prioritizes the welfare of the vulnerable over personal gain. Ultimately, the concept of mashsheh serves as a timeless biblical principle, challenging believers to reflect God's justice and mercy in their economic practices and foreshadowing the ultimate spiritual release from sin's debt found in Christ.
TRV