Exodus 21:2: “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free, without paying anything.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 21:2 introduces a law regarding Hebrew servants, setting specific terms for their service and release. The verse instructs that a Hebrew servant is to serve for six years, after which he must be released in the seventh year without any obligation or payment. This law reflects God’s concern for justice and fairness, particularly in a society where servitude was a common practice. It ensures that servitude among the Israelites was not a permanent condition but one with a clear and just endpoint, symbolizing freedom and restoration.
Historical Context
In the ancient Near Eastern context, servitude was a common social and economic practice, often resulting from debt or poverty. However, the servitude described here differs from the harsh and lifelong slavery seen in other cultures. In Israel, a Hebrew servant was more akin to an indentured servant, working for a set period to pay off a debt. The law in Exodus 21:2 reflects God’s desire to protect the dignity and rights of the servant. By mandating their release in the seventh year, God was ensuring that servitude did not become a life sentence but rather a temporary condition with the promise of freedom.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse emphasizes God’s justice and mercy. The command to release the servant in the seventh year mirrors the rhythm of rest and renewal found throughout Scripture, particularly in the Sabbath principle. Just as God rested on the seventh day, so too were His people to experience rest and freedom in the seventh year. This law highlights God’s concern for human dignity and the importance of freedom. It also serves as a reminder that God’s laws are rooted in His character—He is both just and merciful.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 21:2 is part of the broader legal code known as the “Book of the Covenant,” which spans Exodus 21-23. This section of Scripture shifts from narrative to legal instruction, providing detailed guidelines for living in a way that honors God. The structure of the verse is straightforward, presenting a conditional statement (“If you buy a Hebrew servant”) followed by the prescribed action (“he is to serve you for six years”) and the command (“he shall go free”). The clarity and directness of the language reflect the importance of these laws in maintaining justice and order within the community.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other passages in the Bible echo the principles found in Exodus 21:2:
- Deuteronomy 15:12: “If any of your people—Hebrew men or women—sell themselves to you and serve you six years, in the seventh year you must let them go free.”
- Leviticus 25:39-41: “If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and sell themselves to you, do not make them work as slaves. They are to be treated as hired workers or temporary residents among you; they are to work for you until the Year of Jubilee.”
- Jeremiah 34:14: “Every seventh year each of you must free any fellow Hebrews who have sold themselves to you. After they have served you six years, you must let them go free.”
These references show the consistency of God’s command across different parts of the Old Testament and emphasize the importance of freedom and justice in Israelite society.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 21:2 can be seen as a call to value freedom and justice. While the specific practice of servitude may no longer be relevant, the principles behind the verse remain vital. Christians are called to treat others with dignity, to ensure justice in their dealings, and to support the freedom and restoration of those who are oppressed or in difficult situations. This verse also reminds believers that God’s laws are not just ancient rules but principles that reflect His ongoing concern for human well-being.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s love in His desire to protect and restore His people. By establishing limits on servitude and ensuring the eventual release of the servant, God shows His concern for the welfare of every individual. His love is evident in His provision for rest and renewal, reflecting His care for both the physical and spiritual well-being of His people. The command to free servants in the seventh year is a tangible expression of God’s love, ensuring that no one remains in bondage indefinitely.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ’s mission on earth was deeply connected to the themes of freedom and release. In Luke 4:18, Jesus declares, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free.” Jesus embodies the ultimate fulfillment of the law, bringing spiritual freedom to all who believe in Him. Just as the Hebrew servant was set free in the seventh year, so too does Jesus set believers free from the bondage of sin and death, offering them eternal life and restoration.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Exodus 21:2 challenge our understanding of justice and mercy?
- What does this verse teach us about God’s concern for freedom and human dignity?
- In what ways can Christians today reflect the principles of this verse in their relationships and communities?
- How does the theme of release in this verse connect to the freedom offered by Jesus Christ?
- What does this passage reveal about God’s character, and how does that impact our relationship with Him?
This article explores the meaning of Exodus 21:2, drawing connections to broader biblical themes and providing insights for modern Christian living.