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You asked

what were the practical implications of a debt release like this for an ancient agricultural society?

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 a book of laws and instructions given by Moses to the Israelites just before they enter the promised land. It often reiterates and expands upon earlier laws, preparing the new generation for life in their new home. This passage describes a specific law about debt forgiveness.

What systems might be put in place today to prevent perpetual debt and offer fresh starts, especially for those in vulnerable economic positions?

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Read alongside it

  • Leviticus 25:8-10

    Describes the 'Jubilee year' every 50 years, involving even more comprehensive release of debts and return of land.

  • Matthew 6:12

    Part of the Lord's Prayer, asking God to 'forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors,' linking spiritual and economic forgiveness.

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