Keraia
Deuteronomy 15

Deuteronomy 15:3

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

Translations

Modern
You may collect something from a foreigner, but you must forgive whatever your brother owes you.
Traditional
Of a foreigner thou mayest exact it again: but that which is thine with thy brother thine hand shall release;
Literal
Of a foreigner you may require it, and that which is owed by your brother your hand shall release.
Latin
A peregrino et advena exiges: civem et propinquum repetendi non habebis potestatem.

Original

Hebrew
English
You may collect something from a foreigner, but you must forgive whatever your brother owes you.

Notes

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 Biblical Concept of Law Covenant Debt Deuteronomy, Book of Feasts and Festivals of Israel Foreigner Neighbor Poor, the Sabbath

Topics

Aliens: Jews Authorized to Take Usury From Creditor: Laws Concerning Creditors: Prohibited From: Exacting Debts from Brethren During Sabbatical Year Lending: General Scriptures Concerning Poor: Duty To Sabbatic Year: Creditors Required to Release Debtors In Strangers: Mosaic Law Relating to Usury of The Feast of Sabbatical Year: Enactments Respecting: No Release to Strangers During The Feast of Sabbatical Year: Enactments Respecting: Remission of Debts