151 At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.
151 "At the end of every seven years you shall grant a release.
151 At the end of every seventh year, cancel all debts.
151 "At the end of every seven years you shall grant a release of debts.
151 "At the end of every seventh year you must cancel the debts of everyone who owes you money.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Deuteronomy 15:1
Commentary on Deuteronomy 15:1-11
(Read Deuteronomy 15:1-11)
This year of release typified the grace of the gospel, in which is proclaimed the acceptable year of the Lord; and by which we obtain the release of our debts, that is, the pardon of our sins. The law is spiritual, and lays restraints upon the thoughts of the heart. We mistake, if we think thoughts are free from God's knowledge and check. That is a wicked heart indeed, which raises evil thoughts from the good law of God, as theirs did, who, because God had obliged them to the charity of forgiving, denied the charity of giving. Those who would keep from the act of sin, must keep out of their minds the very thought of sin. It is a dreadful thing to have the cry of the poor justly against us. Grudge not a kindness to thy brother; distrust not the providence of God. What thou doest, do freely, for God loves a cheerful giver, 2 Corinthians 9:7.