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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 34 - Verse 14

34:14
At the end of seven years let ye go every man his brother an Hebrew, which hath been sold unto thee; and when he hath served thee six years, thou shalt let him go free from thee: but your fathers hearkened not unto me, neither inclined their ear.

Meaning

According to this verse, after seven years of service, Hebrew slaves were to be released and sent away empty-handed. This law was established to ensure that no one would be enslaved for an indefinite period of time. It demonstrates a sense of justice and compassion towards others, acknowledging their humanity and granting them their freedom after a designated period of labor. Unfortunately, the verse also highlights the disobedience of the people, as they did not follow this law and continued to mistreat their fellow Hebrews. This failure to heed God's instructions shows a lack of empathy and respect for the inherent dignity of every individual. By including this verse in the Bible collection, readers are reminded of the importance of treating others with kindness and fairness, as well as the consequences of ignoring God's commands.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse could focus on the theme of freedom and obedience to God's commandments. The passage establishes guidelines for the treatment of Hebrew slaves, detailing the requirement to release them after seven years of service. This commandment underscores the importance of respecting the humanity and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their social status or circumstances. Additionally, by emphasizing the need to listen and obey God's laws, the verse highlights the consequences of disobedience. The reference to previous generations failing to heed God's instructions serves as a warning to readers about the importance of following His will. Through this passage, believers can reflect on the principles of justice, mercy, and obedience that are central to the teachings of the Bible.

American Standard Version

At the end of seven years ye shall let go every man his brother that is a Hebrew, that hath been sold unto thee, and hath served thee six years, thou shalt let him go free from thee: but your fathers hearkened not unto me, neither inclined their ear.
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