What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 23:15?

Do not return

• The verse begins with an unmistakable prohibition: “You shall not hand over…” (Deuteronomy 23:15). God speaks to Israel in the imperative, making this a binding moral command, not a suggestion.

• Scripture often places clear limits on what a believer may do when another human being is in danger (Exodus 23:7; Proverbs 31:8-9; James 4:17).

• By stating the matter negatively—“Do not”—the Lord blocks any excuse of neutrality. Inaction that enables oppression is itself disobedience.

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a slave

• The word identifies a real person, created in God’s image, regardless of social status (Genesis 1:27; Job 31:15).

• Israel’s law already regulated servitude to prevent perpetual bondage (Leviticus 25:39-43) and condemned kidnapping people for slavery (Exodus 21:16; 1 Timothy 1:10).

• Here the fleeing slave is treated foremost as a vulnerable neighbor, echoing the call to love the sojourner and the weak (Deuteronomy 10:18-19; Matthew 22:39).

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to his master

• Masters in ancient Israel held legal authority, yet that authority was never absolute. God reserves the final word over every human relationship (Colossians 4:1).

• The verse deliberately places a boundary around a master’s claim, reminding Israel that allegiance to God’s righteousness outranks social contracts (Acts 5:29).

• By refusing return, the community effectively judges that something in the master-slave relationship has turned unjust, echoing Job’s protest, “If I have denied justice to my manservant… what will I do when God rises up?” (Job 31:13-15).

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if he has taken refuge with you

• “Taken refuge” signals asylum. God consistently honors those who seek shelter under His people’s care (Psalm 9:9; Isaiah 16:3-4).

• Welcoming the runaway is an act of compassion and alignment with the Lord’s own character as “a refuge for the oppressed” (Psalm 9:9).

• The community that receives the fugitive now bears responsibility to provide safe lodging and freedom within Israel (Deuteronomy 23:16), embodying the principle that mercy triumphs over exploitation (Micah 6:8; James 2:13).

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summary

Deuteronomy 23:15 commands God’s people to protect a fleeing slave rather than return him to possible abuse. Each phrase underscores covenant priorities: unwavering obedience to God, recognition of every person’s dignity, limitation of human authority when it conflicts with divine justice, and active refuge for the vulnerable. The verse models a society where compassion and righteousness govern even the most delicate social relationships, pointing forward to the ultimate freedom and refuge found in Christ.