Deuteronomy 15:12If your brother, 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.
The setting
Eastern Jordan Valley, 1406 BC. Moses addresses two million Israelites before crossing into Canaan. Modern-day Jordan, across from Jericho.
The emotion here: urgent concern for justice as death approaches
The original word
chophshiy (חָפְשִׁי) — completely free, no strings attached, like a bird released from a cage
Why it matters
This was the world's first systematic debt forgiveness law, 3,400 years ago
Read with care
What most readers miss in Deuteronomy 15:12
The 'brother' language — this only applied to fellow Israelites, not foreign slaves
Common misconceptionPeople think this was about slavery like in America. This was about debt servitude — people selling themselves to pay off debts, with automatic freedom built in.
The thread continues
Verses that echo Deuteronomy 15:12
Bible Genome reading
Deuteronomy 15:12 — Bible Genome reading
Emotional genome
Deuteronomy 15:12 comes from the book of Deuteronomy, written during the exodus period. These words are attributed to Moses. The dominant emotion in this verse is resting, with a comfort power of 30% and a tone that is commanding. It belongs to the law genre of biblical literature. Key themes include justice, freedom, sabbath. Notable phrases: Hebrew brother; sold to you; six years; seventh year. This verse contains a command.
Emotionally similar
Verses that meet the same resting
“Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud,”
— 1 Corinthians 13:4
“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, "It is finished." He bowed his head, and gave up his spirit.”
— John 19:30
“Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing.”
— Psalms 23:1
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfor…”
— Psalms 23:4
“"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth."”
— Psalms 46:10
Your reflection
What does Deuteronomy 15:12 mean to you, today?
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