Deuteronomy 15:9
Beware that there bee not a thought in thy wicked heart, saying, The seuenth yeere, the yeere of release is at hand, and thine eye be euill against thy poore brother, and thou giuest him nought, and hee crie vnto the Lord against thee, and it be sinne vnto thee. Deuteronomy 15:9 (KJV)
This verse is found within the context of the instructions given by Moses to the Israelites regarding the practice of the Year of Release or the Sabbatical Year. During this year, debts were forgiven, and Hebrew slaves were set free. It was a time of remission and restoration, emphasising God’s provision and care for His people. The verse begins with a warning to guard against harmful thoughts that may lead to unjust actions. It cautions against an evil eye or a selfish attitude toward a poor brother, warning that refusing to provide assistance is a sin that the poor person may cry out to the LORD about.
The passage reminds us that attitude matters; we are called to cultivate a righteous and compassionate attitude toward those in need. Generosity and compassion are highlighted as the Year of Release serves as a reminder to be generous and compassionate towards the poor and less fortunate. The surrounding context urges the Israelites to be generous to the poor, especially during the Year of Release, when debts were cancelled and slaves were freed.
Accountability to God is emphasized: how the people treat the needy reflects their relationship with God, and neglect would be contrary to His commands. The verse also begins with a warning not to fear becoming poor, reminding the people that the LORD will bless them. This underscores the importance of trusting in God’s faithfulness rather than succumbing to anxiety about material lack.
God’s provision is a central theme; the Sabbatical Year was a reminder of God’s ongoing care for His people, encouraging trust in His faithfulness and highlighting the importance of living according to principles of justice and mercy. In summary, Deuteronomy 15:9 encourages the Israelites—and us today—to trust in God’s provision, avoid fear of poverty, and uphold a spirit of generosity, especially during times designated for communal relief such as the Year of Release.
