Keraia
Deuteronomy 15

Deuteronomy 15:1

The Seventh Year · Deuteronomy 15:1–6
Read Deuteronomy 15

Translations

Modern
At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts.
Traditional
At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.
Literal
At the end of seven years you shall grant a release.
Latin
Septimo anno facies remissionem,

Original

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

Notes

Deuteronomy 15:1

cancel debts: This refers to releasing people from what they owe. It means freeing them from financial bondage (being trapped by unpaid debt).

The creditor was to forgive the debt. The person who owed money would not face further penalty for failing to repay it.

Deuteronomy 15:1–23

The law of Moses included rules about borrowing and lending. Here, God commanded Israel to cancel debts in the seventh year and to lend generously to the poor.

These laws helped poor people survive times of need. They also placed limits on the wealthy so they would not take advantage of those who were vulnerable.

Theme notes and profiles

Ancient Law Codes

Parallels

Exodus 23:10–13 Leviticus 25:1–7

Glossary

Archaeology and the Bible Banker, Banking Beggar Biblical Concept of Law Covenant Debt Deuteronomy, Book of Feasts and Festivals of Israel Poor, the Sabbath

Topics

Bankruptcy Lending: General Scriptures Concerning Sabbatic Year: Creditors Required to Release Debtors In The Feast of Sabbatical Year: Enactments Respecting: Remission of Debts