Exodus 21:5
And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free:
Original Language Analysis
וְאִם
H518
וְאִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
1 of 14
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
10 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בָּנָ֑י
and my children
H1121
בָּנָ֑י
and my children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
11 of 14
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
12 of 14
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Voluntary permanent servitude (recorded by piercing the ear at the doorpost) was rare but provided. It protected servants who thrived under good masters. The doorpost ritual symbolized belonging to the household permanently.
Questions for Reflection
- What does voluntary servitude based on love teach about Christian service to Christ?
- How does the servant's choice ('I love my master') illustrate true freedom versus mere autonomy?
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Analysis & Commentary
And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free:
Love can voluntarily extend servitude—'I love' (אָהַבְתִּי, ahavti) my master, wife, children. The servant may prefer security with a good master over freedom with poverty. This provision protects servants' choice—freedom isn't forced. The ear-piercing ritual (v. 6) marks permanent voluntary service. The New Testament applies this to Christ-service: we're bought, freed, then voluntarily bond ourselves to Christ as love-slaves (Romans 1:1, doulos). We serve not from compulsion but love. Christ is the good Master; we willingly say 'I love my Master and will serve Him forever.'