Topical Bible: The Feast of Sabbatical Year: Enactments Respecting: Release of all Hebrew Servants

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Sabbatical Year, also known as the "Year of Release," is a significant observance in the biblical calendar, occurring every seventh year. This year is marked by several enactments, one of which is the release of all Hebrew servants. This practice is rooted in the Mosaic Law and reflects the principles of rest, freedom, and divine provision.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for the release of Hebrew servants during the Sabbatical Year is found in the Book of Deuteronomy. Deuteronomy 15:12-15 states: "If a fellow Hebrew, a man or woman, sells himself to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you must set him free. And when you release him, do not send him away empty-handed. You are to furnish him liberally from your flock, your threshing floor, and your winepress. You shall give to him as the LORD your God has blessed you. Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you; that is why I am giving you this command today."

This passage underscores the importance of compassion and generosity in the release process, reminding the Israelites of their own deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The release of Hebrew servants is not merely a legal obligation but a moral and spiritual act that reflects God's redemptive work.

Purpose and Significance

The release of Hebrew servants during the Sabbatical Year serves multiple purposes:

1. Restoration of Freedom: The release symbolizes a return to freedom and personal autonomy for those who had sold themselves into servitude due to economic hardship. It is a reset that allows individuals to start anew, free from the burdens of servitude.

2. Social Equality: By mandating the release of servants, the Sabbatical Year promotes social equality and prevents the perpetuation of generational servitude. It ensures that no Israelite remains in bondage indefinitely, thus maintaining the social fabric of the community.

3. Divine Provision: The command to provide liberally for the departing servant reflects a trust in God's provision. It acknowledges that all blessings come from God and that His people are to mirror His generosity.

4. Covenantal Reminder: The enactment serves as a reminder of the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. Just as God redeemed them from Egypt, they are to act as agents of redemption for their fellow Israelites.

Practical Implementation

The release of Hebrew servants was to be conducted with fairness and generosity. The master was instructed not to send the servant away empty-handed but to provide from his own resources, ensuring the servant's ability to sustain himself after release. This act of provision was a tangible expression of the master's gratitude for the servant's years of service and a reflection of God's blessings.

Theological Implications

The release of Hebrew servants during the Sabbatical Year is a profound illustration of God's justice and mercy. It points to the ultimate liberation found in Christ, who came to "proclaim liberty to the captives" (Isaiah 61:1). The practice foreshadows the spiritual freedom offered through the gospel, where believers are released from the bondage of sin and granted new life in Christ.

In summary, the release of Hebrew servants during the Sabbatical Year is a divinely instituted practice that embodies the principles of freedom, equality, and divine generosity. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's redemptive work and His call for His people to live in accordance with His justice and mercy.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 21:2
If you buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 15:12
And if your brother, an Hebrew man, or an Hebrew woman, be sold to you, and serve you six years; then in the seventh year you shall let him go free from you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook