Deuteronomy 23:15 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel must not return fugitive slaves to their masters.
The Context of Deuteronomy 23:15
Laws protecting fugitive slaves.
What Does Deuteronomy 23:15 Mean?
A slave fleeing to Israel from a foreign master must not be forcibly returned. This law granted asylum to enslaved people, preventing their recapture and return to servitude. It represented a protective stance toward those in bondage, allowing them to seek refuge within Israel's borders.
Unlike modern asylum concepts, the law did not specify why a servant might flee—abuse, cruelty, or escape from distant masters all qualified. The prohibition placed Israel in a position to harbor escaped servants rather than enforce other nations' slave systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 23:15
What does Deuteronomy 23:15 mean?
Israel must not return fugitive slaves to their masters.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 23:15?
Laws protecting fugitive slaves.