Exodus 21:7

Authorized King James Version

And if a man sell his daughter to be a maidservant, she shall not go out as the menservants do.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכִֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
יִמְכֹּ֥ר
sell
to sell, literally (as merchandise, a daughter in marriage, into slavery), or figuratively (to surrender)
#3
אִ֛ישׁ
And if a man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#4
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
בִּתּ֖וֹ
his daughter
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#6
לְאָמָ֑ה
to be a maidservant
a maid-servant or female slave
#7
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
כְּצֵ֥את
do
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#9
כְּצֵ֥את
do
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#10
הָֽעֲבָדִֽים׃
as the menservants
a servant

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Exodus.

Historical Context

The historical context of the period of Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1440-1400 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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