Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 21:3 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 21:3 is part of the Book of the Covenant, a section of the Bible that outlines the laws and regulations that governed the life of the Israelites after their liberation from Egypt. These laws, received by Moses on Mount Sinai, were intended to establish justice, order, and moral integrity within the Israelite community. Exodus 21:3, specifically, addresses the circumstances of Hebrew slaves and their treatment, marking the beginning of a section that focuses on various aspects of servitude. Understanding this verse within its historical, cultural, and theological context is essential for a full understanding of its meaning. In this article, we will explore the context of Exodus 21:3, the meaning of the verse, its application in life, comparison with other biblical texts, modern-day relevance, and provide a detailed commentary.
The Context on Exodus 21:3 KJV
The Setting of Exodus 21
Exodus 21 is part of the legal code given to the Israelites by God after their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The Israelites had recently crossed the Red Sea and were encamped at Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments (Exodus 19-20). Following these foundational commandments, God provided a detailed set of laws to guide the social, civil, and religious life of the Israelites. These laws were to be followed by the people in order to maintain justice, protect the vulnerable, and ensure a society that honored God’s holiness.
Exodus 21 begins a section known as the Book of the Covenant (Exodus 21-23), which includes various civil and moral laws. These laws were given to establish a fair and just society and covered everything from the treatment of slaves to the handling of property disputes. Exodus 21:1-11 specifically addresses the treatment of Hebrew slaves or servants, and Exodus 21:3 is one of the key verses in this discussion.
Exodus 21:3 in Context
Exodus 21:3 is part of a set of laws that govern the duration of service for Hebrew slaves, the conditions under which they serve, and their treatment. The verse reads:
“If he came in by himself, he shall go out by himself: if he were married, then his wife shall go out with him.” (Exodus 21:3, KJV)
This verse provides guidelines for a Hebrew servant who has entered servitude, either voluntarily or as a result of debt, and it outlines the conditions under which they may leave their service. This regulation pertains to the freedom of the servant after a set period of time and specifically addresses the fate of the servant’s family in such a scenario.
The Meaning of Exodus 21:3
Understanding the Law of the Hebrew Servant
Exodus 21:3 outlines a specific situation regarding the release of a Hebrew servant. In the ancient Israelite society, a Hebrew servant was typically someone who had fallen into debt and was unable to pay it off. In such cases, the person would sell their labor in exchange for food, shelter, and the possibility of eventually paying off the debt through service. This type of servitude was not meant to be permanent but had a fixed duration, generally six years (as outlined in Exodus 21:2). In the seventh year, the servant was to be released and allowed to return home free of charge.
Exodus 21:3 addresses the release of the servant in the case where the individual has been married during their time of service. The verse specifies that if the servant entered servitude without a wife, they would leave alone at the end of their service. However, if the servant was married while in servitude, his wife would also be released to join him in freedom when his term of service was over. This provision highlights the importance of family unity and the fair treatment of the servant’s spouse.
The Importance of Family Unity
The provision in Exodus 21:3 reveals a key aspect of biblical justice: the protection of family. It ensures that a servant’s wife is not left behind when the husband is granted his freedom, emphasizing that family bonds should not be broken due to economic hardship or servitude. This consideration shows God’s care for the integrity of the family unit and His desire for justice in every aspect of human relationships.
Exodus 21:3 Application in Life
God’s Justice and Family Preservation
Exodus 21:3 offers valuable lessons for modern Christians, particularly in relation to justice and the preservation of family life. While the institution of servitude in ancient Israel is no longer practiced today, the underlying principles of this verse remain relevant. The treatment of individuals within a family, the preservation of unity, and the fair treatment of all members are timeless values that Christians are called to uphold.
This verse can be applied to relationships within families, workplaces, and communities. In families, the principle that husbands and wives are to remain united and work together for the well-being of the family is a biblical standard. In modern-day society, Christians can apply the principle of justice in situations of financial or economic hardship, ensuring that family unity is not torn apart by external pressures such as poverty or financial strain.
The Value of Fair Treatment
Exodus 21:3 also speaks to the broader principle of fair treatment in all areas of life. Just as the law ensured that Hebrew servants and their families were treated with fairness, Christians are called to promote justice and fairness in all dealings with others. Whether in business, personal relationships, or societal matters, the call is to ensure that individuals are not exploited or left in unfair circumstances, particularly when it comes to family relationships and responsibilities.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
Leviticus 25:39-43
Leviticus 25:39-43 provides a parallel to Exodus 21:3, as it addresses the treatment of Hebrew slaves and the restoration of their freedom. This passage speaks about how, after six years of service, Hebrew servants should be released, and if they were married during that time, their families should also be set free:
“And if thy brother that dwelleth by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant: but as an hired servant and as a sojourner, he shall be with thee, and shall serve thee unto the year of jubile.” (Leviticus 25:39-40)
This law reinforces the idea of protecting the family unit and ensuring that individuals are not exploited beyond a set period. It emphasizes that servitude should not result in permanent separation from one’s loved ones and that there should always be a path to freedom and restoration.
Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Deuteronomy 15:12-15 also addresses the release of Hebrew servants, emphasizing the generosity that should accompany their release:
“And if thy brother, an Hebrew man, or an Hebrew woman, be sold unto thee, and serve thee six years; then in the seventh year thou shalt let him go free from thee.” (Deuteronomy 15:12)
This passage not only upholds the principle of family unity but also stresses that the servant should be treated generously upon their release, with provisions to help them get back on their feet. The emphasis is on compassion, justice, and the fair treatment of individuals, aligning with the values expressed in Exodus 21:3.
Matthew 7:12 (The Golden Rule)
The principle found in Exodus 21:3 can be compared with Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:12, often referred to as the Golden Rule:
“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)
While Exodus 21:3 specifically addresses the treatment of Hebrew servants, the broader principle of fairness and justice resonates with the teaching of Jesus. The Golden Rule encourages believers to treat others with the same fairness, respect, and consideration that they would desire for themselves. This idea is consistent with the justice and protection of family relationships found in Exodus 21:3.
Modern-Day Relevance
Social Justice and Family Preservation
Exodus 21:3 continues to hold relevance in modern society, particularly in discussions around social justice and the treatment of families. In today’s world, where issues such as poverty, unemployment, and economic instability continue to affect families, the principle of family unity and protection is crucial. The verse encourages modern Christians to ensure that family members are not torn apart by external pressures, whether in economic, social, or personal struggles.
Additionally, the passage calls for fair treatment of individuals in positions of vulnerability, ensuring that families are not left behind when a member gains freedom or autonomy. This is especially important in areas such as employment, where workers’ rights and family preservation should be prioritized.
Workplace Ethics and Family Considerations
In the modern workplace, Exodus 21:3’s message can be applied by ensuring that employees are treated fairly and that family life is not compromised for the sake of economic demands. This includes promoting work-life balance, respecting family responsibilities, and offering fair wages and benefits that enable employees to care for their families.
Conclusion
Exodus 21:3 is a verse that highlights God’s concern for justice, family unity, and the fair treatment of individuals. It provides a framework for ensuring that no one is exploited or treated unfairly, particularly when it comes to the preservation of the family unit. While the specific context of Hebrew servitude is no longer applicable today, the underlying principles of fairness, respect, and compassion continue to resonate in modern society. For Christians, this verse serves as a reminder to uphold justice and to prioritize the well-being of families, whether in personal relationships, work, or society at large. The message of Exodus 21:3 is timeless, calling believers to live in a way that reflects God’s love and concern for all His people.
Exodus 21:3 Commentary
Exodus 21:3 is a short but significant verse that reflects the justice and compassion that should characterize the relationships among God’s people. It teaches us about the fair treatment of individuals, particularly within the context of servitude, and emphasizes the importance of family unity. This verse serves as a reminder that God is deeply concerned with the well-being of His people, both individually and collectively, and that justice must be upheld in every area of life.
The provision in this verse regarding the release of a Hebrew servant and their family shows God’s concern for both freedom and family. It underscores that no one should be permanently bound by debt or servitude, and that families should not be separated due to social or economic circumstances. Through these regulations, God sought to establish a society rooted in fairness, dignity, and respect for all people.
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