Deuteronomy 15: The Year of Release and Generosity to the Poor — A Coptic Orthodox Perspective

Executive Summary ✨

Deuteronomy 15, a cornerstone of the Law, unveils God’s compassionate heart for the impoverished, establishing the Year of Release (Shmita) – a sabbatical year where debts were forgiven. This chapter isn’t just about economics; it’s profoundly spiritual, demanding a radical shift in our attitude towards wealth, poverty, and our brothers and sisters in Christ. This isn’t just a historical decree; it calls us to embrace generosity, trust in God’s provision, and resist the temptation to hoard. From a Coptic Orthodox perspective, this chapter echoes the spirit of almsgiving, selfless love, and the constant awareness of God’s bountiful grace that permeates our liturgical life and spiritual disciplines. The practical applications of Generosity to the Poor are timeless, challenging us to examine our hearts and extend a helping hand to those in need.

Introduction: Deuteronomy 15 paints a vivid picture of a society transformed by divine justice and boundless generosity. It’s more than just legal code; it’s a vision of a community where the needs of the vulnerable are met, and the love of God overflows. This chapter offers enduring lessons on economic fairness, spiritual responsibility, and the transformative power of compassion. Our exploration from a Coptic Orthodox perspective reveals layers of spiritual depth, connecting these ancient laws to the heart of the Gospel.

Commentary Section: Deuteronomy 15 Verse by Verse 📖

Deuteronomy 15:1 (KJV)

“At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.”

Deuteronomy 15:1 (NKJV)

“At the end of every seven years you shall grant a release of debts.”

This initial verse sets the stage for the Year of Release, the Shmita. The number seven in Scripture often symbolizes completeness or perfection. This wasn’t merely a pragmatic legal adjustment; it was a profound act of faith, trusting that God would provide for the entire community even with this dramatic reset. Consider the wisdom of St. Anthony the Great who said, “Ἀπέχου τῶν πραγμάτων σου, καὶ σωθήσῃ,” (Apékhou tōn pragmátōn sou, kaì sōthḗsēi) – “Detach yourself from your possessions, and you will be saved” (Sayings of the Desert Fathers). This detachment is precisely what the Year of Release encouraged, albeit on a societal scale. For us, in the Coptic tradition, this verse calls us to continually release our attachments to worldly things, focusing on eternal treasures. How often do we cling to material security instead of trusting in God’s provision? This verse invites us to examine our hearts and cultivate a spirit of generosity, remembering that all we have is ultimately a gift from God.

Deuteronomy 15:2 (KJV)

“And this is the manner of the release: Every creditor that lendeth ought unto his neighbour shall release it; he shall not exact it of his neighbour, or of his brother; because it is called the Lord’s release.”

Deuteronomy 15:2 (NKJV)

“And this is the form of the release: Every creditor who has lent anything to his neighbor shall release it; he shall not require it of his neighbor or his brother, because it is called the Lord’s release.”

Verse 2 clarifies the mechanics: debts are *released*. It wasn’t just a suspension of payments, but a complete cancellation. Note the emphasis on “neighbour” and “brother”. This wasn’t just a general economic policy; it was about familial responsibility and community cohesion. The phrase “it is called the Lord’s release” is crucial. The release belongs to God; it’s an act of obedience to His will. This resonates with the Coptic understanding of *metanoia* (μετάνοια), or repentance, which involves a turning away from selfish pursuits and a turning towards God’s commandments, particularly those concerning love and compassion. The Fathers teach us to treat our brother as Christ, as our salvation is through the collective body of Christ. How can we apply this to our lives? Perhaps by forgiving those who owe us (material or otherwise) and offering support instead of demanding repayment. Consider offering a helping hand through Dohost.us to your struggling brothers and sisters in Christ.

Deuteronomy 15:3 (KJV)

“Of a foreigner thou mayest exact it again: but that which is thine with thy brother thine hand shall release;”

Deuteronomy 15:3 (NKJV)

“From a foreigner you may exact it; but what is yours with your brother, your hand shall release.”

A distinction is made between loans to foreigners and loans to fellow Israelites. While the release applied fully to fellow Israelites, debts from foreigners could be exacted. This wasn’t necessarily discriminatory but reflected the unique covenantal relationship Israel had with God and their commitment to internal justice. The emphasis remains firmly on prioritizing the well-being of the community of faith. This verse prompts us to consider our own priorities. Where do we focus our generosity? Should we not prioritize those closest to us in faith, extending the love and support that they need? It doesn’t negate helping others, but establishes a clear hierarchy of responsibility, beginning with our spiritual family.

Deuteronomy 15:4 (KJV)

“Save when there shall be no poor among you; for the Lord shall greatly bless thee in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee for an inheritance to possess it:”

Deuteronomy 15:4 (NKJV)

“except when there is no poor among you; for the Lord will greatly bless you in the land which the Lord your God is giving you to possess as an inheritance—”

This verse is often misinterpreted. It doesn’t suggest that poverty will be eradicated completely. Rather, it presents an ideal – a society so obedient to God’s commands that poverty is minimized. This ideal highlights the responsibility of the community to care for its members, ensuring that no one suffers from lack. It emphasizes the concept of “social justice” – not in a modern political sense, but in the ancient understanding of a community fulfilling its God-given mandate to care for the vulnerable. This verse echoes the Coptic emphasis on *agape* (ἀγάπη), selfless love, which motivates us to actively seek out and alleviate suffering. What concrete steps can we take to contribute to a society where the poor are fewer in number and better cared for?

Deuteronomy 15:5 (KJV)

“Only if thou carefully hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all these commandments which I command thee this day.”

Deuteronomy 15:5 (NKJV)

“only if you carefully obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all these commandments which I command you today.”

Obedience is key. The blessings promised are conditional – contingent upon faithful adherence to God’s commands. The Year of Release wasn’t just a suggestion; it was a commandment. This verse underscores the interconnectedness of faith and action. We cannot claim to love God if we are unwilling to obey His commands, especially those concerning love and compassion for the needy. The act of obedience itself becomes a form of worship. Consider the words of St. Cyril of Alexandria, “Ἐργάται γίνεσθε τοῦ θελήματος τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ οὐκ ἀμελήσετε τῆς σωτηρίας ὑμῶν” (Ergátai gínesthai toû thelḗmatos toû Theoû, kaì ouk amelḗsete tês sōtērias hymôn) – “Become workers of the will of God, and you will not neglect your salvation” (Commentary on John). How does our obedience to God’s commands reflect our commitment to Him and impact our salvation?

Deuteronomy 15:6 (KJV)

“For the Lord thy God blesseth thee, as he promised thee: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, but thou shalt not borrow; and thou shalt reign over many nations, but they shall not reign over thee.”

Deuteronomy 15:6 (NKJV)

“For the Lord your God blesses you just as He promised you; you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow; you shall reign over many nations, but they shall not reign over you.”

Blessing and prosperity are promised as a consequence of obedience. This verse speaks of economic strength and national independence. Israel’s role as a lender nation, not a borrower, symbolizes their elevated position and God’s favor. However, true prosperity extends beyond material wealth. It encompasses spiritual well-being, justice, and peace within the community. The promise is not merely for individual enrichment, but for the flourishing of the entire nation under God’s guidance. In our lives, how can we strive for a “prosperity” that reflects God’s values – a prosperity that includes generosity, compassion, and justice?

Deuteronomy 15:7 (KJV)

“If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother:”

Deuteronomy 15:7 (NKJV)

“If there is among you a poor man, one of your brethren, within any of your gates in your land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor brother,”

This verse directly addresses the heart’s attitude. “Harden your heart” and “shut your hand” are powerful images of callous indifference. The presence of a “poor man” among them is presented as a test of their faith and obedience. The emphasis on “thy brother” reinforces the idea of familial responsibility. This reminds us of the Parable of the Good Samaritan; we are to look at anyone in need as our brother. From a Coptic perspective, we understand that neglecting the poor is to neglect Christ Himself. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matthew 25:40). How can we soften our hearts and open our hands to those in need, even when it’s inconvenient or challenging?

Deuteronomy 15:8 (KJV)

“But thou shalt open thine hand wide unto him, and shalt surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he wanteth.”

Deuteronomy 15:8 (NKJV)

“but you shall open your hand wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, whatever he lacks.”

Not just open your hand, but open it “wide.” This verse doesn’t advocate for grudging assistance but for lavish generosity. Lend “sufficient for his need” – a commitment to meeting the specific requirements of the poor. The phrase “whatever he lacks” emphasizes the breadth of our responsibility. We are not merely to provide basic necessities but to address all the needs of our brother. What might be some specific ways we can open our hands wide to those in need, going beyond the bare minimum and truly seeking to alleviate their suffering?

Deuteronomy 15:9 (KJV)

“Beware that there be not a thought in thy wicked heart, saying, The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand; and thine eye be evil against thy poor brother, and thou givest him nought; and he cry unto the Lord against thee, and it be sin unto thee.”

Deuteronomy 15:9 (NKJV)

“Beware lest there be a wicked thought in your heart, saying, ‘The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand,’ and your eye be evil against your poor brother and you give him nothing, and he cries out to the Lord against you, and it becomes sin to you.”

This verse reveals the true battleground: the heart. The temptation to withhold generosity, knowing that the debt will soon be forgiven, is condemned as “a wicked thought.” An “evil eye” signifies greed and a lack of compassion. The warning that the poor brother may “cry unto the Lord against thee” underscores the seriousness of the sin. God hears the cries of the afflicted and will hold us accountable for our actions. This verse emphasizes the internal struggle we must face – the battle between selfishness and generosity. St. Macarius the Great says, “Οὐδεὶς ἀγαθὸς, εἰ μὴ μόνος ὁ Θεός” (Oudeìs agathós, ei mḕ mónos ho Theós) – “No one is good except God alone” (Homilies). Therefore, our goodness comes from emulating God’s generosity and compassion. How can we cultivate a generous heart, free from the “wicked thought” that leads to withholding assistance from those in need?

Deuteronomy 15:10 (KJV)

“Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall not be grieved when thou givest: for for this thing the Lord thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all that thou puttest thine hand unto.”

Deuteronomy 15:10 (NKJV)

“You shall surely give to him, and your heart should not be grieved when you give, for because of this thing the Lord your God will bless you in all your works and in all that you put your hand to.”

Generosity must be willing and cheerful. “Thine heart shall not be grieved” – a heart filled with resentment defeats the purpose of the act. The promise of blessing is reiterated, emphasizing that God rewards generosity. This is not a transactional approach (give to get), but a recognition that generosity aligns us with God’s nature and opens us to His blessings. What does it mean to give with a cheerful heart? How can we transform our attitude toward giving, from a sense of obligation to a joyful act of worship and love?

Deuteronomy 15:11 (KJV)

“For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.”

Deuteronomy 15:11 (NKJV)

“For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘Open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land.’”

The inevitability of poverty is acknowledged. “The poor shall never cease out of the land” – poverty will always exist. Therefore, the command to be generous is not contingent on eradicating poverty (which is impossible), but on accepting it as a constant reality and responding with compassion. The threefold description of the needy (“thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy”) emphasizes the comprehensive nature of our responsibility. From an environmental and geographical perspective, the land itself could be a source of poverty. Droughts, crop failures, or lack of access to fertile land could disproportionately affect certain populations. We are called to recognize these factors and address them with practical solutions. How can we address the systemic issues that contribute to poverty while simultaneously practicing individual acts of generosity?

Deuteronomy 15:12 (KJV)

“And if thy brother, an Hebrew man, or an Hebrew woman, be sold unto thee, and serve thee six years; then in the seventh year thou shalt let him go free from thee.”

Deuteronomy 15:12 (NKJV)

“If one of your brethren, a Hebrew man or a Hebrew woman, is sold to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you shall let him go free from you.”

This section shifts from debt to servitude. Hebrew slaves were to be released in the seventh year. This reflected a core principle: no Israelite was meant to be permanently enslaved to another Israelite. It acknowledged the dignity and inherent worth of every person within the covenant community. Slavery, even in this limited form, was viewed as a temporary circumstance, not a permanent condition. How can we apply this principle to modern forms of oppression, working to ensure that all people are treated with dignity and respect and that systems of exploitation are dismantled?

Deuteronomy 15:13 (KJV)

“And when thou sendest him out free from thee, thou shalt not let him go away empty:”

Deuteronomy 15:13 (NKJV)

“And when you send him away free from you, you shall not let him go away empty-handed;”

Releasing the slave was not enough. They were not to be sent away “empty.” This reflects a commitment to providing them with the resources they needed to rebuild their lives. This act of generosity mitigated the potential for them to fall back into poverty. It’s not enough to remove oppression; we need to provide the means for those oppressed to thrive. How can we ensure that those we help have the resources and support they need to achieve lasting independence and self-sufficiency?

Deuteronomy 15:14 (KJV)

“Thou shalt furnish him liberally out of thy flock, and out of thy floor, and out of thy winepress: of that wherewith the Lord thy God hath blessed thee thou shalt give unto him.”

Deuteronomy 15:14 (NKJV)

“you shall supply him liberally from your flock, from your threshing floor, and from your winepress. From what the Lord your God has blessed you with, you shall give to him.”

Liberality is emphasized. The slave was to be furnished generously from the owner’s own possessions. This highlighted the owner’s gratitude for God’s blessings and their commitment to sharing those blessings with others. The reminder that “the Lord your God hath blessed thee” is crucial. All wealth and possessions ultimately come from God, and we are merely stewards of what He has entrusted to us. What are some practical ways we can share the blessings God has given us – our time, talents, and resources – with those who are less fortunate?

Deuteronomy 15:15 (KJV)

“And thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in the land of Egypt, and the Lord thy God redeemed thee: therefore I command thee this thing to day.”

Deuteronomy 15:15 (NKJV)

“You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God redeemed you; therefore I command you this thing today.”

The Exodus narrative serves as a powerful reminder of Israel’s own history of slavery. They were to treat others as they themselves had wished to be treated. Remembering their own past suffering should motivate them to act with compassion and justice towards those who were vulnerable. This verse speaks to the importance of empathy and historical awareness. By remembering the past, we can avoid repeating the mistakes of our ancestors and work to create a more just and compassionate society. The Coptic Church, being an ancient church which also survived under oppression, deeply understands these realities. How does our understanding of history shape our commitment to justice and compassion in the present?

Deuteronomy 15:16 (KJV)

“And it shall be, if he say unto thee, I will not go away from thee; because he loveth thee and thine house, because he is well with thee;”

Deuteronomy 15:16 (NKJV)

“And if it happens that he says to you, ‘I will not go away from you,’ because he loves you and your household, since he prospers with you,”

The slave had the option to remain in service if they chose. This was a voluntary choice, based on affection and a desire for security. This highlights the importance of relationships and the possibility of genuine connection even within the context of servitude. While slavery was inherently unjust, this verse acknowledges the potential for positive relationships to develop between master and slave. Even in difficult situations, love and compassion can flourish. How can we build positive relationships with those we serve, treating them with dignity and respect even when we are in positions of authority?

Deuteronomy 15:17 (KJV)

“Then thou shalt take an aul, and thrust it through his ear unto the door, and he shall be thy servant for ever. And also unto thy maidservant thou shalt do likewise.”

Deuteronomy 15:17 (NKJV)

“then you shall take an awl and thrust it through his ear to the door, and he shall be your servant forever.’ And also to your female servant you shall do likewise.”

The piercing of the ear symbolized a permanent commitment to servitude. This act was a public declaration of the slave’s choice to remain in service. The word “forever” should be understood in the context of the Old Testament covenant. It likely meant for the remainder of the slave’s life. It is important to understand the historical context here. While we view this as abhorrent, it also signified protection and security within the household. For those with no alternatives, this was sometimes seen as preferable to freedom and potential starvation. How do we balance our understanding of historical context with our commitment to universal human rights and the inherent dignity of every person?

Deuteronomy 15:18 (KJV)

“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 (NKJV)

“It shall not seem hard to you when you send him away free from you, for he has been worth a double hired servant to you in serving you six years. And the Lord your God will bless you in all that you do.”

Generosity should not feel burdensome. The reminder that the slave was worth “a double hired servant” emphasizes the value of their labor. Releasing them was not a loss, but an investment in obedience and a demonstration of faith. The promise of blessing is reiterated. This reinforces the idea that generosity is ultimately beneficial to the giver. How can we reframe our understanding of generosity, seeing it not as a sacrifice but as an opportunity for growth, blessing, and deeper connection with God?

Deuteronomy 15:19 (KJV)

“All the firstling males that come of thy herd and of thy flock thou shalt sanctify unto the Lord thy God: thou shalt do no work with the firstling of thy bullock, nor shear the firstling of thy sheep.”

Deuteronomy 15:19 (NKJV)

“All the firstborn males that come from your herd and your flock you shall dedicate to the Lord your God; you shall do no work with the firstborn of your herd, nor shear the firstborn of your flock.”

This shifts focus to the firstborn of animals. The firstborn were to be dedicated to God, symbolizing His ownership and sovereignty over all creation. This was an act of worship and thanksgiving, acknowledging that all blessings ultimately come from God. The firstborn were considered special and were set apart for sacred purposes. This teaches us to give God our best, not just what is left over. How can we dedicate the “firstfruits” of our lives – our time, talents, and resources – to God, acknowledging His sovereignty over all that we have?

Deuteronomy 15:20 (KJV)

“Thou shalt eat it before the Lord thy God year by year in the place which the Lord shall choose, thou and thy household.”

Deuteronomy 15:20 (NKJV)

“You and your household shall eat it before the Lord your God year by year in the place which the Lord chooses.”

The firstborn animals were to be eaten in a celebratory meal before the Lord. This was an act of fellowship and communion, strengthening the bond between God and His people. The meal was to be shared with the entire household, emphasizing the importance of community and family. This reminds us of the Eucharist in the Coptic Orthodox Church, where we commune with God and with one another. How can we cultivate a spirit of fellowship and communion in our families and communities, sharing our blessings with those around us?

Deuteronomy 15:21 (KJV)

“And if there be any blemish therein, as if it be lame, or blind, or have any ill blemish, thou shalt not sacrifice it unto the Lord thy God.”

Deuteronomy 15:21 (NKJV)

“But if there is a defect in it, if it is lame or blind or has any serious defect, you shall not sacrifice it to the Lord your God.”

Only unblemished animals were acceptable for sacrifice. This emphasized the importance of offering God our best. Imperfect offerings were unacceptable, reflecting a lack of reverence and respect. This verse encourages us to give God our best, not just our leftovers. It applies to all areas of our lives – our worship, our service, and our relationships. How can we strive for excellence in all that we do, offering God our best efforts and intentions?

Deuteronomy 15:22 (KJV)

“Thou shalt eat it within thy gates: the unclean and the clean shall eat it alike, as the roebuck, and as the hart.”

Deuteronomy 15:22 (NKJV)

“You may eat it within your gates; the unclean and the clean alike may eat it, as the gazelle and the deer.”

If the animal had a blemish, it could still be eaten, but not sacrificed. This highlighted the distinction between what was sacred and what was common. The “unclean and the clean” could eat it, emphasizing inclusivity and equality. This underscores the grace of God extended to all. What principles of inclusivity and equality can we champion today, ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances?

Deuteronomy 15:23 (KJV)

“Only thou shalt not eat the blood thereof; thou shalt pour it upon the ground as water.”

Deuteronomy 15:23 (NKJV)

“Only you shall not eat its blood; you shall pour it on the ground like water.”

The prohibition against eating blood is reiterated. Blood symbolized life and belonged to God alone. This command served as a reminder of God’s sovereignty over life and death. This also has connections to the sacrifice of Christ, whose blood was shed for our sins. How can we cultivate a reverence for life, recognizing its sacredness and protecting it from harm?

Subtopic: Practical Applications of Generosity to the Poor 💡

Deuteronomy 15 challenges us to move beyond theoretical understanding and embrace practical action. How can we translate these ancient principles into concrete steps in our modern world?

Financial Stewardship: Re-evaluate our spending habits and prioritize generosity. Consider tithing or setting aside a portion of our income for charitable giving.
Volunteering Time: Dedicate time to serving in local shelters, food banks, or other organizations that support the needy.
Advocating for Justice: Support policies and initiatives that address systemic issues of poverty and inequality.
Practicing Forgiveness: Release those who owe us debts (financial or otherwise), extending grace and compassion.
Building Relationships: Connect with people from diverse backgrounds and develop genuine relationships with those who are less fortunate.
Remembering the Exodus: Reflect on our own history and struggles, using them as motivation to fight for justice and compassion for others.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about applying Deuteronomy 15 to our lives today:

Q: Is the Year of Release meant to be implemented literally today?

A: While a literal implementation may be challenging in our complex economic systems, the *spirit* of the Year of Release – forgiveness of debt, prioritizing community well-being, and trusting in God’s provision – is timeless and should guide our actions. We can create our own “Year of Release” by forgiving debts, supporting financial literacy programs, and advocating for economic justice.
Q: How do I know if I’m being truly generous, or just giving out of guilt?

A: True generosity springs from a heart of love and compassion, not from guilt or obligation. Examine your motives. Are you giving to alleviate suffering and honor God, or to alleviate your own conscience? Seek to cultivate a joyful and willing spirit, remembering that God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Q: What if I’m struggling financially myself? How can I still be generous?

A: Generosity doesn’t always require financial resources. We can offer our time, talents, and prayers to those in need. Even a small act of kindness, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement can make a significant difference. Remember the widow’s mite (Luke 21:1-4) – God values the heart behind the giving, not the amount.
Q: How can I balance my responsibility to care for my family with my responsibility to care for the poor?

A: Caring for our families is a primary responsibility, but it should not preclude generosity to others. Seek a balance, prioritizing the needs of your family while also remaining open to opportunities to help those in need. Consider involving your family in acts of service, teaching them the importance of compassion and generosity.

Conclusion ✨

Deuteronomy 15, with its focus on the Year of Release and Generosity to the Poor, presents a radical vision of a society transformed by God’s love and justice. It challenges us to examine our hearts, prioritize compassion, and trust in God’s provision. While the specific laws may not be directly applicable in our modern context, the underlying principles of forgiveness, generosity, and social responsibility are timeless and deeply relevant to our Coptic Orthodox faith. Let us strive to embody these principles in our lives, becoming instruments of God’s love and justice in a world that desperately needs both.

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Explore Deuteronomy 15 from a Coptic Orthodox perspective. Discover the spiritual significance of the Year of Release and learn how to apply the principles of Generosity to the Poor in your life today.