Deuteronomy 15: Don’t be stingy

Synopsis:

Every seven years, you release all debts from your fellow brethren. So if someone owes you money – you release the debt. If someone is your slave, you release them. But only if they are Hebrew.  If a brother is poor, give them of your flock so they won’t be poor. And don’t be stingy as you get towards the 7th year thinking, you won’t be repaid for God will bless you and besides, there will always be poor people.

In other words:

Don’t carry debts forward more than 7 years and don’t be stingy with the poor.

Favorite bit:

(Deuteronomy 15:7-11) Don’t allow wickedness and greed prevent you from giving to the poor. And don’t use the 7 year release as an excuse not to give. There will always be poor people, so be generous with them.

Least favorite bit:

(Deuteronomy 15:17) If a slave refuses to leave because they like it in your house, punch a hole through their ear to mark them as yours forever. (ugh)

Moral Lesson Learned:

Don’t be stingy with the poor. Just don’t. (Deuteronomy 15:7-11)