Deuteronomy 23:15
Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee:
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern law codes treated escaped slaves very differently from Israel's law. The Code of Hammurabi (sections 15-20) prescribed death for anyone harboring escaped slaves and required their return to masters. Mesopotamian treaties between city-states included extradition clauses for fugitive slaves. Egyptian, Hittite, and Ugaritic texts similarly demanded slaves' return and punished those aiding escapees. Slavery was foundational to ancient economies, making fugitive slave laws crucial for maintaining social order and economic stability.
Archaeological evidence from texts across the ancient Near East confirms the pervasiveness of slavery and harsh penalties for escape. Slaves were valuable property, and losing them represented significant economic loss. International treaties routinely included provisions for mutual return of fugitive slaves, workers, and political refugees. Against this universal practice, Israel's law stands as a radical exception, prioritizing humanitarian concern over economic and diplomatic considerations.
The law's practical application likely involved escaped foreign slaves rather than internal Hebrew servitude, which had its own regulations (Exodus 21:2-11, Deuteronomy 15:12-18). Archaeological evidence shows that Israel was surrounded by nations with harsh slavery practices, including temple slavery, debt bondage with no release provisions, and brutal treatment. Israel's willingness to shelter escapees would have attracted desperate individuals and provoked diplomatic tensions with neighboring states, demonstrating commitment to humanitarian principles despite economic and political costs. This law established Israel as a beacon of hope for the oppressed, foreshadowing the church's mission to offer spiritual refuge to all who come to Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this law's protection of escaped slaves challenge economic systems that prioritize property rights over human dignity?
- In what ways should the church serve as a refuge for those fleeing oppressive situations in contemporary contexts?
- How does God's command to protect fugitive slaves foreshadow Christ's invitation to all who are weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28)?
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Analysis & Commentary
Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee:
This remarkable law prohibited returning escaped slaves to their masters, standing in stark contrast to ancient Near Eastern legal codes and modern fugitive slave laws. The Hebrew eved (עֶבֶד, 'servant' or 'slave') likely refers to foreign slaves fleeing to Israel from harsh masters in surrounding nations, though it could include Hebrew slaves fleeing abusive treatment. The command 'thou shalt not deliver' (lo tasgir) used the same verb describing betrayal or handing over an enemy (Deuteronomy 32:30, Joshua 20:5).
This law embodied revolutionary humanitarian principles:
While Israel's own slavery system included regulations and limitations (Exodus 21, Leviticus 25), this law acknowledged that some servitude was so oppressive that escape was justified and those fleeing deserved protection, not punishment. It placed human welfare above economic interests and international treaties.
Theologically, this law pointed toward the gospel's liberation theme. Israel was to remember their own slavery in Egypt and God's deliverance (Deuteronomy 5:15), extending similar mercy to others. Christ's redemption fulfills this pattern: He provides refuge for those fleeing slavery to sin and Satan. The church becomes a sanctuary where former slaves of sin find freedom and protection. Historically, this law influenced some abolitionists who argued that biblical principles condemned returning fugitive slaves, though others tragically cited different passages to defend slavery. The law's clear humanitarian thrust reveals God's heart for the oppressed.