A Hebrew servant was released in the seventh year and gifted liberally to honor the dignity of every Israelite, remind the people of their own redemption, and prevent permanent servitude among God’s covenant people. The servant’s release was not merely about ending labor, it was about restoring freedom and recognizing that Israel belonged to the Lord, not to each other.
“If 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.” (Deuteronomy 15:12)
But freedom alone was not enough. God commanded that the master send the servant away with generosity:
“When you send him away free… you shall not let him go away empty-handed; you shall supply him liberally… from what the Lord your God has blessed you with.” (Deuteronomy 15:13–14)
This act reflected God’s own treatment of Israel when He brought them out of Egypt. The servant was not to start over with nothing. He was to leave with provision that allowed him to reestablish his life in freedom. The command protected against exploitation and modeled covenant mercy.
“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.” (Deuteronomy 15:15)
Releasing the servant with blessing acknowledged that all authority and possessions come from God. It turned economic release into an act of worship and gratitude.
