Exodus 21:8 meaning
In the context of ancient Israelite society, laws pertaining to slavery were designed to mitigate exploitation and provide a more humane framework than those existing in surrounding cultures. In Exodus 21:8, we see specific provisions for female servants. The law acknowledges the grave situation if a master deceives or mistreats a woman sold into servitude, particularly those betrothed to him. This section of scripture underscores the broader themes of fairness, respect, and the recognition of personal agency within the constraints of societal structures.
Rather than permitting total control over a servant's life, these laws set clear boundaries and protections, highlighting God’s concern for justice and equity, even within social hierarchies. Furthermore, the stipulation against selling her to a foreign nation reinforces the sanctity of the communal identity of God's people. This principle resonates with the biblical understanding of human dignity and the emerging moral landscape as defined by the covenant community, emphasizing liberation from the injustices that characterized their past in Egypt.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Exodus 21:2-11 meaning. The first section of the Book of the Covenant concerns how male and female servants (or slaves) were to be treated.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Exodus 39:8-21 meaning. Along with the ephod, the high priest wore a breastpiece. It was made of the same material as the ephod and had twelve stones arranged in four rows on it. Other items associated with the breastpiece were also built. The design of the breastpiece was given in Exodus 28:15 – 30.
- Exodus 20:8-11 meaning. The 4th commandment is to keep the sabbath day holy. Keeping the sabbath was introduced earlier in the book of Exodus (16:23 – 29) and is established here. It is the only commandment that was given to the Israelites before it was established in the Ten Commandments. It is also mentioned more in the Mosaic Law than any other commandment.
- Exodus 9:8-12 meaning. The sixth plague (verses 8 – 12) is the last one in the second cycle of the nine plagues. It comes without warning, like the third plague. It involved inflicting painful boils on humans and livestock. Even the magicians were afflicted by the boils and were unable to control the plague. But the result was as the LORD had predicted – Pharaoh's heart was hardened by the LORD and he did not let the Israelites go out of the land to worship the LORD God.
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