Deuteronomy 15:12

Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

«إنِ اشْتَرَيتَ عِبرَانِيًّا أوْ عِبرَانِيَّةً مِنْ شَعْبِكَ. وَعَمِلَ لَدَيكَ سِتَّ سَنَوَاتٍ، يَنْبَغِي أنْ تُحَرِّرَهُ فِي السَّنَةِ السَّابِعَةِ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse is from Moses speaking to the Israelites. It says that if a Hebrew person is sold into slavery to you, they must serve for six years and then be set free in the seventh year. The key message is about the liberation of Hebrew slaves after a set time.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who has to help you with chores for six years. After those six years, it's like saying, 'Thank you for your hard work, now you're free to do what you want!' This is how God wanted the Israelites to treat their Hebrew slaves.

Historical Background

This verse is part of Deuteronomy, written by Moses around 1200 BC. It was given to the Israelites as they were about to enter the Promised Land. It reflects the cultural norms of that time, where slavery was common but God set limits to ensure fairness and freedom.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this can be applied to contracts or agreements that have a set end-date. Just as a Hebrew slave was freed after six years, we should respect and honor the terms of agreements we make, including the set times for freedom or release.

Topics

• freedom
• justice
• slavery
• agreements
• compassion
• time

Related Verses

• Exodus 21:2
• Jeremiah 34:14
• Leviticus 25:40
• Luke 4:19
• Colossians 4:1

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does God allow slavery in the Bible?

God sets limits and rules for slavery, indicating His desire for fairness and compassion. It reflects the cultural context but also His guidance for better treatment of people.

Does this verse apply to non-Hebrew slaves?

This specific law applies to Hebrew slaves, but the broader principles of justice and compassion extend to all people, as seen in other biblical teachings.

How can we apply this verse in a modern context?

We can apply this by ensuring fair treatment in agreements and contracts, respecting the set times for freedom and release in various agreements or commitments.

What is the significance of the seventh year?

The seventh year is significant as a time of liberation and rest, reflecting God's desire for justice and freedom, mirroring the Sabbath rest for the land and people.