Exodus 21:11
And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.
Original Language Analysis
וְאִם
H518
וְאִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
1 of 10
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
שְׁלָ֨שׁ
not these three
H7969
שְׁלָ֨שׁ
not these three
Strong's:
H7969
Word #:
2 of 10
three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
4 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יַֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה
And if he do
H6213
יַֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה
And if he do
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
5 of 10
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
וְיָֽצְאָ֥ה
unto her then shall she go out
H3318
וְיָֽצְאָ֥ה
unto her then shall she go out
Strong's:
H3318
Word #:
7 of 10
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
Historical Context
The Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:22-23:33) is Israel's foundational legal code, predating later expansions in Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. It addresses civil, criminal, and ceremonial matters.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this law reveal God's character—His justice, mercy, or holiness?
- What New Testament principles build upon or fulfill this Old Testament regulation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.
This judgment (mishpat) from the Book of the Covenant applies moral law to civil society. God's justice is comprehensive—addressing economic disputes, family relations, and community welfare. The case laws teach covenant people how to love God and neighbor practically. Through detailed ordinances, God shapes Israel as holy nation, distinct from pagan neighbors. These laws reveal God's character: just, merciful, concerned with details of everyday life.