Old Testament
Deuteronomy 15:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You may still collect debts from a foreigner, but you must cancel whatever a fellow Israelite owes you.
Compare translations
Of a foreigner thou mayest exact it again: but that which is thine with thy brother thine hand shall release;
What Deuteronomy 15:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a clear guideline about how to treat debts among people. If someone from another nation owes you money, you can still collect that debt. However, when it comes to your fellow Israelite, the rules change. You are required to forgive any debts they owe you. This principle emphasizes the importance of compassion and community over strict financial gain. It encourages a sense of unity and support among people who share the same background. By canceling debts, you foster goodwill and strengthen relationships. This practice reflects a deeper understanding of generosity and kindness, reminding us that our connections with others are more valuable than money. It’s a call to prioritize love and support over profit, especially within our own communities. This approach not only helps those in need but also builds a stronger, more caring society where everyone looks out for one another. Ultimately, it’s about creating a culture of forgiveness and understanding.
How to apply Deuteronomy 15:3 to your life
Consider how you can apply this principle in your life. If someone you know is struggling financially, think about ways you can help them without expecting repayment. This could mean forgiving a small debt or offering support in other ways. Building a caring community starts with individual acts of kindness and understanding. Every small gesture counts in making a difference in someone’s life. It’s about creating a culture of generosity.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 15:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 15:3
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 15:3 teach about debt collection?
Deuteronomy 15:3 teaches that while you can collect debts from foreigners, you must forgive debts owed by fellow Israelites. This highlights the importance of compassion and community, encouraging individuals to prioritize relationships over financial gain.
How can I apply the principle of debt forgiveness in my life?
You can apply this principle by considering ways to help those in financial distress without expecting repayment. This might involve forgiving a small loan or providing support in other forms, fostering a culture of generosity and community care.
Why is debt forgiveness important in a community?
Debt forgiveness is important in a community as it promotes unity, compassion, and support among its members. By forgiving debts, individuals strengthen relationships and create an environment where people look out for one another, enhancing overall social cohesion.
What is the significance of forgiving debts to fellow Israelites?
Forgiving debts to fellow Israelites signifies a commitment to community values and mutual support. It reflects a deeper understanding of generosity and kindness, emphasizing that relationships and community welfare are more valuable than financial transactions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.