Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 21:9 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 21:9 is a verse in the Mosaic Law that addresses the treatment and rights of a female servant who is designated for marriage. It is part of a broader passage that seeks to ensure justice, compassion, and proper care for individuals in vulnerable situations. Like many other laws in the Mosaic covenant, it reflects God’s concern for fairness and the protection of human dignity within societal structures.
The verse reads:
“And if he have betrothed her unto his son, he shall deal with her after the manner of daughters.” (Exodus 21:9, KJV)
This article explores the context, meaning, and application of Exodus 21:9. It also examines its connection to other biblical texts, its modern-day relevance, and insights from biblical commentaries.
The Context on Exodus 21:9 KJV
The Book of the Covenant
Exodus 21:9 is part of the Book of the Covenant (Exodus 21–23), a collection of laws given to Israel after the Ten Commandments. These laws address various aspects of civil, moral, and ceremonial life, establishing a framework for justice and societal order. Within this framework, God provides laws to protect vulnerable groups, including servants, widows, and orphans.
The Cultural and Historical Background
In ancient Israel, selling a daughter into servitude was not the same as the harsh and dehumanizing slavery practiced in later eras. This arrangement often served as a way to ensure the daughter’s welfare in cases of extreme poverty. The intention was usually to secure a marriage for the daughter, either with the master or his son. Such arrangements were governed by strict laws to prevent abuse and ensure the woman’s dignity and rights.
The Immediate Context
Exodus 21:7–11 outlines the rights and protections of female servants. If a man sold his daughter into servitude, her treatment was regulated to safeguard her dignity. If she was not pleasing to her master or was not taken as a wife, she was to be redeemed (Exodus 21:8). If the master designated her as a wife for his son, he was required to treat her as a daughter (Exodus 21:9). These laws highlight God’s concern for justice and the humane treatment of individuals in such situations.
The Meaning of Exodus 21:9
Exodus 21:9 specifies the rights of a female servant who is betrothed to her master’s son. The phrase “deal with her after the manner of daughters” implies that she is to be treated with the same respect, care, and legal rights as any other daughter in the household.
Legal and Relational Implications
Equality in Status
By requiring the master to treat the woman as a daughter, this law emphasizes her equal status within the family. She is not to be viewed merely as a servant but as a full member of the household with the rights and privileges associated with that position.
Protection Against Exploitation
The law safeguards the woman from being treated as property or being discarded without care. If the arrangement involved a marital commitment, her treatment was to reflect that sacred bond.
Reflecting God’s Justice
This command demonstrates God’s desire for justice and compassion. It ensures that vulnerable individuals, such as female servants, are protected and valued within societal structures.
Exodus 21:9 Application in Life
Principles of Equality and Respect
The directive in Exodus 21:9 underscores the importance of treating individuals with dignity, regardless of their social or economic status. In modern contexts, this principle can be applied in relationships, workplaces, and communities by fostering environments of mutual respect and fairness.
Commitment to Justice
Exodus 21:9 challenges believers to advocate for justice and equality, particularly for those in vulnerable or marginalized positions. This may involve supporting fair labor practices, advocating for women’s rights, or working to combat human trafficking and exploitation.
Family and Responsibility
The verse also highlights the sanctity of familial relationships and the responsibilities they entail. For Christians, it serves as a reminder to honor commitments, uphold integrity, and treat others as valued members of God’s family.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
Deuteronomy 10:18–19
Deuteronomy 10:18–19 states:
“He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.”
This passage aligns with the principles in Exodus 21:9, emphasizing God’s care for the vulnerable and His call for His people to reflect His justice and compassion.
Proverbs 31:8–9
Proverbs 31:8–9 urges believers to:
“Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.”
This verse resonates with the spirit of Exodus 21:9, highlighting the importance of advocating for those who cannot defend themselves, such as the maidservant mentioned in the Mosaic Law.
Galatians 3:28
In the New Testament, Galatians 3:28 declares:
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This passage reflects the ultimate fulfillment of the principles in Exodus 21:9, pointing to the unity and equality of all believers in Christ.
Modern-Day Relevance
Advocating for Women’s Rights
Exodus 21:9 serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting women’s rights and dignity. In many parts of the world, women still face exploitation and injustice. This verse challenges Christians to support efforts that promote equality and justice for women.
Fair Treatment of Workers
The principle of treating individuals fairly and with dignity can be applied in modern workplaces. Employers and leaders are called to reflect God’s justice by ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and provided with opportunities to thrive.
Building Compassionate Communities
Exodus 21:9 encourages believers to build communities that reflect God’s love and justice. This involves caring for the vulnerable, advocating for the marginalized, and fostering relationships based on mutual respect and compassion.
Conclusion
Exodus 21:9 is a powerful testament to God’s concern for justice, dignity, and compassion. By commanding that a female servant betrothed to the master’s son be treated as a daughter, the verse underscores the value of every individual and the importance of equitable treatment within familial and societal relationships.
For modern Christians, this verse serves as a call to reflect God’s justice and compassion in all areas of life. Whether advocating for the rights of women, promoting fair treatment of workers, or building compassionate communities, the principles in Exodus 21:9 remain profoundly relevant. By embodying these values, believers can honor God and bear witness to His love and righteousness in the world.
Exodus 21:9 Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Matthew Henry highlights that the laws concerning maidservants reflect God’s concern for justice and humanity. He emphasizes that the command to treat the woman as a daughter underscores her equal status and value within the household.
Theological Perspectives
Theologically, Exodus 21:9 demonstrates God’s character as a defender of the vulnerable and a promoter of justice. It points to His desire for relationships and societal structures that reflect His holiness and compassion.
You Might Be Interested In: