Summary
Chapter 15 establishes that every seventh year, all debts to fellow Israelites must be released, while foreign lenders may retain what they owe. The Israelites are commanded to help the poor, especially within their gates, without resentment, promising divine blessing for such generosity. The law also governs Hebrew servants: after six years of service, they are freed, and their master must provide them with food, wine, and cloth, recalling Israel’s own liberation from Egypt. If a servant refuses to leave, the master may bind him with an awl to remain for life. Finally, the firstborn male of every herd and flock is to be set apart for God, with a specified sacrifice and the prohibition of eating blood.