Exodus 21:9
And if he have betrothed her unto his son, he shall deal with her after the manner of daughters.
Original Language Analysis
וְאִם
H518
וְאִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
1 of 7
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
לִבְנ֖וֹ
her unto his son
H1121
לִבְנ֖וֹ
her unto his son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 7
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יִֽיעָדֶ֑נָּה
And if he have betrothed
H3259
יִֽיעָדֶ֑נָּה
And if he have betrothed
Strong's:
H3259
Word #:
3 of 7
to fix upon (by agreement or appointment); by implication, to meet (at a stated time), to summon (to trial), to direct (in a certain quarter or positi
כְּמִשְׁפַּ֥ט
with her after the manner
H4941
כְּמִשְׁפַּ֥ט
with her after the manner
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
הַבָּנ֖וֹת
of daughters
H1323
הַבָּנ֖וֹת
of daughters
Strong's:
H1323
Word #:
5 of 7
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
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
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And if he have betrothed her unto his son, he shall deal with her after the manner of daughters.
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.