Exodus 21:3

Exodus 21:3 is part of the "Book of the Covenant" (Exodus 20:22-23:33), a collection of civil and social laws given by God to Moses immediately following the Ten Commandments. This specific verse addresses the regulations concerning a Hebrew servant, typically an individual who sold himself into temporary servitude due to debt or poverty.

Context

In ancient Israel, becoming a servant (Hebrew: 'ebed) was often a means of economic survival, not a permanent state of chattel slavery as understood in other cultures. For Hebrew servants, the law stipulated a maximum term of six years, with release in the seventh year. This verse clarifies the terms of release based on the servant's marital status at the time he began his service. If he was unmarried ("came in by himself"), he would leave unmarried. However, if he was married when he entered service, his wife was to be released with him, ensuring the family unit was preserved.

Key Themes

• Justice and Compassion: The law demonstrates God's concern for the vulnerable and ensures fair treatment even for those in servitude. It underscores a fundamental principle of justice that permeates Mosaic Law regarding Hebrew servants.
• Protection of the Family Unit: This statute explicitly protects the sanctity of marriage and the family. It prevents a servant's economic hardship from dissolving his marriage or leaving his wife in a precarious position.
• Personal Responsibility and Agreement: The terms of release are tied directly to the circumstances under which the servant entered his service. This highlights the importance of agreements and understanding the conditions of a bond.
• Limits to Servitude: Unlike other ancient legal codes, the Israelite law placed clear limits on the duration and conditions of servitude for its own people, emphasizing dignity and eventual freedom.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "servant" here is 'ebed (עֶבֶד), which can refer to a bondservant, laborer, or slave. In the context of a Hebrew individual, it specifically denotes a temporary indentured servant, not someone in perpetual bondage. The phrase "came in by himself" refers to his marital status—unmarried—at the commencement of his service, distinguishing it from cases where a master might provide a wife during servitude (addressed in the subsequent verse, Exodus 21:4).

Practical Application

Exodus 21:3 provides timeless principles about justice, equity, and human dignity. It reminds us that even in difficult circumstances, God's law seeks to uphold fairness and protect the most vulnerable, particularly the family. Today, it encourages us to consider the ethical implications of labor practices, contractual agreements, and our responsibility to ensure fair treatment for all, especially those in positions of lesser power. It underscores the biblical value placed on marital and family bonds, which should be respected and protected.