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Deuteronomy 15:18

It shall not seem hard unto thee, when thou sendest him away free from thee; for he hath been worth a double hired servant to thee, in serving thee six years: and the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all that thou doest.

Deuteronomy 15:18 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from Deuteronomy discusses the concept of releasing a servant after six years of service. The verse reassures that it should not be difficult to let the servant go free, as they have been worth double the value of a hired servant during their time of service. By releasing the servant, the person is following the laws set by God and will be blessed in all their endeavors. This practice of freeing the servant after a period of service was a way to ensure fair treatment and serve as a reminder that all people are equal in the eyes of God. It aimed to prevent the exploitation of servants and promote compassion and kindness towards those in need. By following these laws, individuals were not only fulfilling their duty to God but also creating a more just and righteous society.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of this verse from Deuteronomy 15:18, it is essential to consider the context in which it was written. In this passage, the Lord is instructing the Israelites on the laws regarding the release of a slave after serving for six years. The verse emphasizes that sending away a slave should not be difficult because the individual has been worth a double hired servant during their time of service. This concept highlights the value of all individuals in God's eyes, regardless of their social status. Additionally, the verse promises that the Lord will bless those who follow these laws. This suggests that obedience to God's commandments, including treating servants with fairness and kindness, will result in divine favor and blessings. Through theological interpretation, we can understand this verse as a reminder of the importance of compassion, fairness, and righteousness in all aspects of our lives, as these qualities are pleasing to God and lead to blessings for those who practice them.

Deuteronomy 15:18 in other translations

American Standard Version

It shall not seem hard unto thee, when thou lettest him go free from thee; for to the double of the hire of a hireling hath he served thee six years: and Jehovah thy God will bless thee in all that thou doest.

World English Bible

It shall not seem hard to you, when you let him go free from you; for he has been double value of a hired hand as he served you six years. Yahweh your God will bless you in all that you do.

Douay-Rheims

Turn not away thy eyes from them when thou makest them free: because he hath served thee six years according to the wages of a hireling: that the Lord thy God may bless thee in all the works that thou dost.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Let it not grieue thee, when thou lettest him goe out free from thee: for he hath serued thee sixe yeeres, which is the double worth of an hired seruant: and the Lord thy God shall blesse thee in all that thou doest.