Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 21:11 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 21:11 is part of the detailed legal instructions given to the Israelites in the Book of the Covenant following the Ten Commandments. These laws reflect God’s justice, mercy, and concern for the dignity and well-being of all individuals, particularly those in vulnerable positions. The verse reads:
“And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.” (Exodus 21:11, KJV)
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of Exodus 21:11, exploring its historical and cultural context, theological significance, practical applications, comparisons with other biblical texts, and modern-day relevance. It also includes insights from biblical commentaries to enrich our understanding of this important verse.
The Context on Exodus 21:11 KJV
The Structure of Exodus 21
Exodus 21 introduces laws that govern interpersonal relationships and societal justice. These laws were part of the covenant God made with Israel at Mount Sinai and were designed to provide guidance on maintaining order, fairness, and compassion in the community. Exodus 21:11 appears within a section dealing with servitude and, specifically, the rights of female servants.
The Immediate Context
The verses preceding Exodus 21:11 (verses 7–10) address the situation where a man sells his daughter into servitude, often with the intention of her becoming a wife or concubine. These laws ensure that the woman is treated with respect and fairness:
- If the master or his son marries her, she must receive the rights of a wife.
- If she is not treated appropriately, she is entitled to redemption or freedom.
- If the master takes another wife, he must not diminish the first wife’s food, clothing, or marital rights.
Exodus 21:11 concludes this section by stating that if the master fails to provide these basic rights, the woman must be allowed to leave without payment.
Cultural Background
In ancient Israel, servitude often served as a way to address economic hardship, differing significantly from the harsh slavery of later eras. Female servants sold into such arrangements were to be treated with care and dignity, particularly if they were intended for marriage. The laws in Exodus 21 were revolutionary for their time, offering protections that safeguarded the vulnerable from abuse.
The Meaning of Exodus 21:11
Ensuring Justice and Protection
Exodus 21:11 ensures that a female servant’s basic rights are upheld. The phrase “these three” refers to the obligations outlined in the preceding verses: provision of food, clothing, and marital rights. Failure to meet these requirements would violate the covenantal principles of justice and care.
Freedom Without Payment
The law states that if the master neglects these obligations, the servant is entitled to freedom without any financial compensation to the master. This provision underscores her inherent dignity and the priority of her welfare over economic gain.
God’s Concern for the Vulnerable
This law reflects God’s character as a defender of the oppressed and a champion of justice. By instituting these protections, God ensured that the dignity and well-being of individuals, even those in servitude, were preserved.
Exodus 21:11 Application in Life
Honoring Commitments
Exodus 21:11 teaches the importance of honoring commitments and treating others with fairness and respect. In modern contexts, this principle applies to relationships, employment, and any situation involving authority and responsibility.
Advocating for the Vulnerable
The verse challenges believers to advocate for the rights and dignity of vulnerable individuals. This might involve supporting efforts to combat human trafficking, providing resources for those in poverty, or working to ensure equitable treatment in various societal systems.
Valuing Human Dignity
Exodus 21:11 reminds Christians that every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion. This principle should guide interactions in personal, professional, and community settings.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
Deuteronomy 24:14–15
“Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of thy brethren, or of thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates. At his day thou shalt give him his hire, neither shall the sun go down upon it; for he is poor, and setteth his heart upon it: lest he cry against thee unto the Lord, and it be sin unto thee.”
This passage reinforces the principle of treating workers fairly and ensuring their needs are met, echoing the protections outlined in Exodus 21:11.
Proverbs 31:8–9
“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.”
Proverbs 31:8–9 aligns with the spirit of Exodus 21:11 by emphasizing the importance of defending the rights of the oppressed and ensuring justice for the vulnerable.
Isaiah 58:6–7
Isaiah 58:6–7 highlights God’s desire for true justice:
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”
This passage complements Exodus 21:11, emphasizing the importance of freeing the oppressed and meeting the needs of the vulnerable.
Modern-Day Relevance
Labor Rights and Fair Treatment
Exodus 21:11 speaks to the importance of fair treatment in employer-employee relationships. Employers are called to ensure that workers’ rights are respected and that they are provided with fair wages, adequate resources, and a safe environment.
Addressing Exploitation
This verse challenges Christians to address modern forms of exploitation, such as human trafficking and exploitative labor practices. Believers are called to advocate for policies and practices that protect the vulnerable and promote justice.
Building Compassionate Communities
Exodus 21:11 encourages believers to build communities that reflect God’s love and justice. This involves caring for the marginalized, advocating for equitable treatment, and fostering relationships based on mutual respect and compassion.
Conclusion
Exodus 21:11 is a profound testament to God’s justice and compassion. By mandating the freedom of a female servant when her basic rights are neglected, the verse highlights the priority of human dignity and the importance of equitable treatment in all relationships.
For modern Christians, Exodus 21:11 serves as a call to reflect God’s justice and compassion in all areas of life. Whether advocating for the rights of the oppressed, ensuring fair treatment in workplaces, or building compassionate communities, the principles in this verse remain deeply relevant. By embodying these values, believers can honor God and bear witness to His love and righteousness in the world.
Exodus 21:11 Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes that the laws in Exodus 21 reflect God’s concern for justice and humanity. He notes that the provision allowing the servant to go free underscores her inherent dignity and the importance of treating individuals with fairness and compassion.
Theological Perspectives
Theologically, Exodus 21:11 demonstrates God’s commitment to justice and the protection of the vulnerable. It reflects His character as a God who hears the cries of the oppressed and acts on their behalf.
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