Purpose

Moses' final speeches to Israel, reviewing the Law and preparing them for life in the Promised Land.

Author

Moses, at age 120, giving his final speeches to Israel before his death. These are his last words to the people he had led for 40 years, filled with wisdom and passion for God.

Historical Context

Written: 1440-1400 BC. Moses' farewell addresses before his death and Israel's entry into the Promised Land.

Significance

Emphasizes loving obedience to God and serves as a covenant renewal before entering the land.

Key Themes

Covenant Renewal, Obedience, Love for God, Blessing and Curse, Leadership

Interesting Facts

• Jesus quoted Deuteronomy more than any other Old Testament book
• Contains the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4) - Judaism's most important prayer for 3,400 years
• Moses was 120 years old but his 'eye was undimmed and his vigor unabated' when he died

Prophecies

• A prophet like Moses would arise (Deuteronomy 18:15) Fulfilled: Jesus Christ, whom Peter identified as this prophet in Acts 3:22 (1400 years later)
• Israel would be scattered among the nations but later regathered (Deuteronomy 28-30) Fulfilled: The Jewish diaspora and the return to Israel in 1948 (2500 years later)

Deuteronomy 15 addresses important laws concerning debt release, generosity towards the poor, and the treatment of Hebrew servants, all intended to foster a spirit of compassion and community among the Israelites. The chapter opens with the command to grant a release of debts every seven years, a practice known as the 'year of release.' This law was designed to prevent perpetual poverty and to ensure that no Israelite would be permanently burdened by debt. The emphasis is placed on the necessity of obeying God’s commands, which, if followed, would result in blessings from the Lord, including prosperity and leadership over other nations. The text then highlights the importance of generosity towards the poor, warning against hardening one's heart or withholding assistance out of fear of the impending year of release. Israelites are called to be open-handed and willing to lend to their brothers in need, emphasizing that God’s blessing accompanies acts of kindness and charity. Additionally, the chapter outlines regulations regarding Hebrew servitude. If a fellow Hebrew becomes indebted to the point of selling themselves into servitude, they must be released after six years of service. Upon their release, they are to be sent away with generous provisions to ensure they can start anew. This reflects the broader theme of remembering one’s own history of slavery in Egypt, serving as a reminder of the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. The chapter concludes with instructions about the dedication of firstborn animals to the Lord, reinforcing the principle of giving back to God from the blessings He has provided. Overall, Deuteronomy 15 encapsulates a vision of a society rooted in compassion, justice, and remembrance of God’s past deliverance.