Exodus 21:7
And if a man sell his daughter to be a maidservant, she shall not go out as the menservants do.
Original Language Analysis
וְכִֽי
H3588
וְכִֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 10
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יִמְכֹּ֥ר
sell
H4376
יִמְכֹּ֥ר
sell
Strong's:
H4376
Word #:
2 of 10
to sell, literally (as merchandise, a daughter in marriage, into slavery), or figuratively (to surrender)
אִ֛ישׁ
And if a man
H376
אִ֛ישׁ
And if a man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
3 of 10
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)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בִּתּ֖וֹ
his daughter
H1323
בִּתּ֖וֹ
his daughter
Strong's:
H1323
Word #:
5 of 10
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
7 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
כְּצֵ֥את
do
H3318
כְּצֵ֥את
do
Strong's:
H3318
Word #:
8 of 10
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
Historical Context
Debt-servitude in ancient Israel allowed impoverished persons to work off obligations while maintaining basic rights. These protections were revolutionary compared to surrounding nations' perpetual slavery systems.
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
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And if a man sell his daughter to be a maidservant, she shall not go out as the menservants do.
This provision regulates Hebrew servitude (עֶבֶד עִבְרִי, eved ivri), protecting indentured servants from exploitation. Unlike ancient Near Eastern chattel slavery, Israel's system limited bondage to six years with mandatory release, reflecting God's concern for human dignity. These laws temper economic necessity with compassion, ensuring even servants retain personhood and future hope. The regulations reveal God's heart for the vulnerable and point to ultimate redemption—Christ freed us from sin's slavery to serve Him voluntarily.