Deuteronomy 15:13
And when thou sendest him out free from thee, thou shalt not let him go away empty:
Original Language Analysis
וְכִֽי
H3588
וְכִֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
תְשַׁלְּחֶ֖נּוּ
And when thou sendest
H7971
תְשַׁלְּחֶ֖נּוּ
And when thou sendest
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
2 of 7
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
מֵֽעִמָּ֑ךְ
H5973
מֵֽעִמָּ֑ךְ
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
4 of 7
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Cross References
Jeremiah 22:13Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work;Malachi 3:5And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.
Historical Context
Releasing servants with capital goods (livestock, grain, wine) prevented immediate return to poverty and new debt-slavery. This 'severance package' enabled economic independence, reflecting God's comprehensive concern for human flourishing beyond mere legal freedom.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's command to 'furnish liberally' challenge minimalist approaches to generosity ('I did enough')?
- What 'spiritual blessings' (Ephesians 1:3) has God lavished on you beyond mere forgiveness?
- In what practical ways can you ensure those you help are equipped for success, not just temporarily relieved?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And when thou sendest him out free from thee, thou shalt not let him go away empty—Liberation without provision is cruelty. God commands furnish him liberally (הַעֲנֵיק תַּעֲנִיק, ha'aneiq ta'aniq, intensive: 'you shall certainly endow') from thy flock, and out of thy floor, and out of thy winepress—comprehensive provision enabling fresh start, not mere dismissal into destitution.
This mirrors God's redemption: not only freed from Egypt but enriched—They borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold (Exodus 12:35). Christ likewise: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3). Salvation includes liberation and inheritance. The servant law taught that God's grace is extravagant, not minimal.