Jeremiah 34:10
Now when all the princes, and all the people, which had entered into the covenant, heard that every one should let his manservant, and every one his maidservant, go free, that none should serve themselves of them any more, then they obeyed, and let them go.
Jeremiah 34:10 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament of the Bible, illustrates the importance of honoring agreements and treating others with respect and dignity. In this particular instance, the people had made a covenant to release their bondservants and maidservants, granting them their freedom. When the princes and the people heard of this covenant, they not only acknowledged it but also chose to obey it. The verse emphasizes the power of collective action and the significance of keeping promises. By letting go of their servants and not using them for their own gain any longer, the people demonstrated their commitment to upholding justice and fairness. This act of obedience reflects a greater societal value of compassion and righteousness, highlighting the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring agreements and valuing the well-being of others.
Theological Overview
This verse from the Book of Jeremiah demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's commandments. When all the princes and people heard that they were to release their manservants and maidservants in accordance with the covenant, they willingly obeyed. This act of letting go of their servants showed their commitment to following God's laws and treating others with fairness and dignity. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the significance of practicing righteousness and justice in all areas of life, including interpersonal relationships and societal structures. By releasing their servants, the people were aligning themselves with God's will for freedom and equality among all individuals. This act serves as a reminder for believers to uphold ethical standards in their actions and decisions, ensuring that they reflect God's values of love, compassion, and righteousness.
Jeremiah 34:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
And all the princes and all the people obeyed, that had entered into the covenant, that every one should let his man-servant, and every one his maid-servant, go free, that none should make bondmen of them any more; they obeyed, and let them go:
World English Bible
All the princes and all the people obeyed, who had entered into the covenant, that everyone should let his male servant, and everyone his female servant, go free, that no one should make bondservants of them any more; they obeyed, and let them go:
Douay-Rheims
And all the princes, and all the people who entered into the covenant, heard that every man should let his manservant, and every man his maidservant go free, and should no more have dominion over them: and they obeyed, and let them go free.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Now when all the princes, and all the people which had agreed to the couenant, heard that euery one should let his seruant go free, and euery one his handmaide, and that none should serue them selues of them any more, they obeyed and let them go.