Jeremiah 34:10

So all the officials and all the people who entered into this covenant agreed that they would free their menservants and maidservants and no longer hold them in bondage. They obeyed and released them,

Study Bible

So all the officials and all the people who entered into this covenant
This phrase highlights the collective decision made by both the leaders and the general populace of Judah. The context is a covenant made during the reign of King Zedekiah, as described earlier in Jeremiah 34. This covenant was a response to the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, a desperate attempt to seek God's favor by obeying His laws regarding the release of Hebrew slaves. The involvement of "all the officials and all the people" indicates a national commitment, reflecting the communal nature of ancient Israelite society where leaders and people were often united in religious and social reforms. This mirrors the covenantal structure seen throughout the Old Testament, where the entire community is bound by agreements made before God.

agreed that they would free their menservants and maidservants
The agreement to free Hebrew slaves is rooted in the Mosaic Law, specifically in Exodus 21:2-6 and Deuteronomy 15:12-18, which commanded the release of Hebrew slaves after six years of service. This act of liberation was not merely a social reform but a religious obligation, reflecting God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. The decision to free slaves during a time of crisis underscores the belief that obedience to God's commands could invoke His mercy and intervention. This act also prefigures the ultimate liberation found in Christ, who frees believers from the bondage of sin.

and no longer hold them in bondage
This phrase emphasizes the intended permanence of the release, aligning with the Jubilee principles found in Leviticus 25, where every fiftieth year, slaves were to be freed, and debts forgiven. The concept of not holding others in bondage resonates with the New Testament teachings of forgiveness and freedom in Christ (Galatians 5:1). Historically, this reflects a significant social and economic shift, as slavery was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The call to release slaves was a radical step towards justice and equality, reflecting God's desire for His people to live in freedom and mutual respect.

They obeyed and released them
The initial obedience of the people and officials is noteworthy, as it demonstrates a willingness to align with God's commands, even at personal and economic cost. This act of obedience is a recurring theme in Scripture, where blessings are often contingent upon adherence to God's laws (Deuteronomy 28). However, the subsequent verses in Jeremiah 34 reveal that this obedience was short-lived, as the people later reneged on their promise, leading to God's judgment. This serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of sustained faithfulness and integrity in one's commitments. The release of the slaves can also be seen as a type of Christ's redemptive work, where He releases humanity from the bondage of sin and death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. He is the author of the book and the one conveying God's commands.

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, during whose reign this event takes place. He is involved in making the covenant to release the slaves.

3. Officials and People of Judah
The leaders and citizens who entered into the covenant to release their slaves, demonstrating a temporary obedience to God's command.

4. Covenant
A solemn agreement made before God to release Hebrew slaves, reflecting a return to the laws given in the Torah regarding the treatment of slaves.

5. Slaves
The male and female Hebrew slaves who were to be set free as part of the covenant, in accordance with God's law.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
True obedience involves consistency and faithfulness, not just temporary compliance. Reflect on areas in your life where you may be obeying God only partially or temporarily.

The Importance of Covenants
Covenants are serious commitments before God. Consider the covenants you have made, such as marriage or baptism, and evaluate your faithfulness to them.

Freedom and Justice
God values freedom and justice, as seen in His commands to release slaves. Advocate for justice and freedom in your community, reflecting God's heart for the oppressed.

Remembrance of Deliverance
Just as Israel was to remember their deliverance from Egypt, remember your own deliverance from sin and let it motivate your obedience to God.

Repentance and Restoration
When you fall short, like the people of Judah, seek repentance and restoration. God's grace is available to restore us when we turn back to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the covenant to release slaves reveal about the spiritual state of Judah at the time of Jeremiah?

2. How does the concept of releasing slaves in Jeremiah 34:10 connect to the broader biblical theme of freedom and redemption?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of keeping covenants in our daily lives, especially in our commitments to God and others?

4. Reflect on a time when you obeyed God partially or temporarily. What steps can you take to ensure consistent obedience in the future?

5. How can the remembrance of God's deliverance in your life inspire you to advocate for justice and freedom in your community today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-11
This passage outlines the laws regarding Hebrew slaves, including their release in the seventh year, which the people of Judah were initially obeying.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Similar to Exodus, this passage reiterates the command to release Hebrew slaves after six years of service, emphasizing compassion and remembrance of Israel's own deliverance from slavery in Egypt.

Leviticus 25:39-46
Discusses the Year of Jubilee and the release of slaves, highlighting God's desire for freedom and restoration.

Jeremiah 34:11
Following verse 10, it reveals the people's disobedience as they took back the slaves they had freed, showing the inconsistency in their commitment to God's commands.