thinking bible.

You asked

what current economic or property systems might these ancient laws challenge or affirm?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Deuteronomy 15:1-2

At the end of every seven years you shall make a release. This is the manner of the release: every creditor shall release that which he has lent to his neighbor. He shall not exact it of his neighbor and his brother, because Yahweh’s release has been proclaimed.

Deuteronomy is presented as Moses' farewell speeches to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, before they enter the promised land. He is reminding them of God's laws and covenants, emphasizing justice and care for the vulnerable within their new society.

What responsibility might a community have for the economic well-being of all its members?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Leviticus 25:8-13

    Describes the Jubilee year, where land returns to original owners, a broader form of economic reset.

  • Exodus 22:25

    Commands against charging interest to the poor among God's people.

  • Nehemiah 5:1-13

    Shows a historical instance where leaders had to address economic exploitation and debt among the people.

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