Deuteronomy 23:15 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 23:15 mean?

Deuteronomy 23:15 instructs the Israelites not to return a servant who has escaped from his master back to that master. This verse sets out a rule that protects runaway servants, saying they should not be handed over if they come seeking refuge.

In this part of Deuteronomy, Moses is speaking to the people of Israel as they prepare to enter the promised land. The verse addresses a situation where a servant (likely a foreign slave) flees to Israel for safety. The command is unusual for its time, as most ancient societies required runaway slaves to be returned. Here, the law sides with the vulnerable person seeking protection.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 23:15

• "deliver" (סָגַר, sagar): This word means to hand over or shut in. The verse uses it to say the Israelites must not hand over the runaway servant, emphasizing a refusal to cooperate with the master’s demand.
• "servant" (עֶבֶד, eved): This term refers to a servant or slave. The use of this word makes clear that the law is talking about someone in a position of low status, not a free person.
• "escaped" (נָצַל, natsal): This word means to be delivered or to escape. It highlights that the servant is fleeing from something, likely mistreatment or danger, and is seeking safety.

Why Deuteronomy 23:15 matters

• Deuteronomy 23:15 stands out because it protects the rights of a vulnerable person, which was not common in ancient law codes; most required the return of escaped slaves.
• The verse shows a concern for justice and compassion, suggesting that Israel was to be a place of refuge for those fleeing oppression.
• This law fits into a wider section where Moses gives instructions about how Israel should treat outsiders and those in need, shaping the community’s values.