Old Testament
Deuteronomy 24:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Pay him his wages each day before the sun goes down, because he is poor and counting on that money. Otherwise he may cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin.
Compare translations
At his day thou shalt give him his hire, neither shall the sun go down upon it; for he is poor, and setteth his heart upon it: lest he cry against thee unto the LORD, and it be sin unto thee.
What Deuteronomy 24:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of fair treatment in the workplace, particularly for those who are struggling financially. It instructs employers to pay their workers daily, ensuring they receive their wages before nightfall. This is crucial because many workers depend on their earnings to meet their immediate needs. If they are not paid on time, they may feel desperate and cry out for help. Such a cry is not just a complaint; it can be seen as a plea to God for justice. The verse warns that failing to pay on time can lead to guilt and wrongdoing. It highlights the moral responsibility of employers to care for their employees, especially those in vulnerable situations. By ensuring timely payment, employers foster trust and respect, creating a more just and compassionate work environment. This principle encourages us to consider the impact of our actions on others, reminding us that fairness and kindness should guide our interactions in all areas of life. Ultimately, it calls for empathy and accountability in our relationships.
How to apply Deuteronomy 24:15 to your life
In your daily life, ensure that you treat others fairly, especially those who rely on you. If you manage people, prioritize timely payments and fair treatment. This builds trust and respect, creating a positive environment for everyone involved. Remember, your actions can significantly impact others' lives and well-being. Be mindful of that responsibility as you go about your day-to-day interactions.
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 Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 24:15
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 24:15
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 24:15 mean?
Deuteronomy 24:15 emphasizes the importance of paying workers their wages on the same day they work, especially if they are poor and depend on that money for their daily needs. It highlights the moral obligation of employers to treat their employees fairly and avoid causing them distress.
What is the significance of paying workers daily in Deuteronomy 24:15?
The significance of paying workers daily in Deuteronomy 24:15 is to ensure that those who are financially vulnerable receive their earnings promptly. This practice helps prevent hardship and shows respect for the workers' needs.
What does 'cry out to the LORD' mean in Deuteronomy 24:15?
In Deuteronomy 24:15, 'cry out to the LORD' refers to the desperate plea of a worker who has not been paid on time. It suggests that their complaint is not just a grievance but a call for divine justice against unfair treatment.
How does Deuteronomy 24:15 relate to workplace ethics?
Deuteronomy 24:15 relates to workplace ethics by promoting fair treatment and timely payment for workers. It underscores the responsibility of employers to create a just work environment, particularly for those in need.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.