11 There will always be poor people in the land. So I'm commanding you to give freely to those who are poor and needy in your land. Open your hands to them.
12 Suppose Hebrew men or women sell themselves to you. If they do, they will serve you for six years. Then in the seventh year you must let them go free.
13 But when you set them free, don't send them away without anything to show for all of their work.
14 Freely give them some animals from your flock. Also give them some of your grain and wine. The Lord your God has blessed you richly. Give to them as he has given to you.
15 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt. The Lord your God set you free. That's why I'm giving you this command today.
16 But suppose your servant says to you, "I don't want to leave you." He loves you and your family. And you are taking good care of him.
17 Then take him to the door of your house. Poke a hole through his ear lobe into the doorpost. And he will become your servant for life. Do the same with your female servant.