Jeremiah 34:14

At the end of seven years let ye go every man his brother an Hebrew, which hath been sold unto thee; and when he hath served thee six years, thou shalt let him go free from thee: but your fathers hearkened not unto me, neither inclined their ear.

Jeremiah 34:14 (KJV)

Context

Jeremiah delivered this message to the people of Judah and its leaders during a time of moral decline and impending judgment. The verse quotes God’s command about releasing Hebrew servants, and it closes by noting that the ancestors of the people did not hearken to God nor incline their ear.

Meaning

The command is rooted in the Mosaic Law, specifically Exodus 21:2, which stipulates that a Hebrew servant shall serve six years and be released in the seventh. The phrase “at the end of seven years” means within the seventh year, not after seven full years, as clarified by the clause “when he hath served thee six years.” This law was designed to prevent exploitation and long-term servitude of fellow Israelites, emphasizing social justice and care for the vulnerable.

The people of Judah had violated this command by not releasing their fellow Hebrews, thus breaking the covenant and neglecting the welfare of their brethren. The reference to “your fathers” indicates a long history of disobedience, not just a recent failure. The command is addressed to the community, emphasizing collective responsibility.

Biblical connections

The release of servants after six years is a practical application of the principle of Jubilee, which foreshadows spiritual redemption and freedom in Christ. This pattern shows that God’s laws are given for the good of society and the protection of the vulnerable.

Application

This verse serves as a rebuke to the people for their persistent disobedience and a reminder of the consequences of their actions. It highlights the significance of obedience to God’s commands, the importance of justice and compassion, and the consequences of disregarding His teachings.

In a broader sense, this verse reminds believers today of the need to honor God’s instructions, treat others with fairness and compassion, and remain faithful to the covenants we have made with Him. It serves as a call to examine our own actions and ensure that we are living in accordance with God’s will.

Reflection

God’s laws are not arbitrary; they are given for the good of society and the protection of the vulnerable. The failure to obey such laws brings judgment, while obedience brings blessing. The verse also points to the principle that God values mercy and justice over ritual or self-interest. It calls believers to examine their own obedience to God’s commands, particularly in how they treat others, and to avoid the hardness of heart that characterized the ancestors.