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Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 15 - Verse 1

15:1
At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.

Meaning

In the Bible, the verse 'At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.' refers to the practice of debt forgiveness known as the Year of Jubilee. According to Jewish law, every seven years, debts were to be forgiven, slaves were to be freed, and land that had been sold was to be returned to its original owner. This practice was meant to prevent economic exploitation and to promote social justice within the community. The Year of Jubilee was a time of renewal and restoration, where individuals could start fresh and rebuild their lives. It served as a reminder of God's provision and mercy, and the importance of generosity and compassion towards others. By following this commandment, the Israelites were able to create a more equitable society and uphold the principles of justice and fairness.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of the verse "At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release" is that it demonstrates God's compassion and provision for those in need. In ancient Israel, this practice of releasing debts was known as the "Sabbatical Year," and it served as a way for God to ensure that His people would not be burdened by financial hardship. By forgiving debts every seven years, God was showing His people that He is a God of mercy and grace, and that He values justice and fairness. This practice also teaches us the importance of forgiveness and generosity towards others, as we see the importance of extending grace to those who may be struggling financially. Additionally, this verse also highlights the importance of rest and renewal, as the Sabbatical Year was a time for the people to focus on spiritual growth and renewal.

American Standard Version

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