Exodus 21:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 21:2
2 If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.
Chapter Context
Exodus 21 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, sacrifice, judgment. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-36: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 21:2
2 If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.
Analysis
If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.
God's first civil law addresses slavery—revealing His priority to protect the vulnerable. 'Hebrew servant' (עֶבֶד עִבְרִי, eved ivri) refers to debt-servitude (not chattel slavery)—Israelites who sold themselves to pay debts. The six-year limit prevents permanent poverty-bondage. 'In the seventh go out free' (בַּשְּׁבִעִת יֵצֵא לַחָפְשִׁי, bashevi'it yetze lachofshi) parallels Sabbath principle—rest after labor, release after bondage. 'For nothing' (חִנָּם, chinnam) means without payment—freedom is gift, not purchase. This revolutionizes ancient economy where debt-slavery was perpetual. God champions the oppressed; His laws limit exploitation.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern slavery was usually permanent. Israel's six-year limit was radically humane. Debt-servitude allowed poor Israelites to work off obligations while maintaining dignity and receiving eventual freedom.
Reflection
- How does the seven-year release reflect Sabbath principles of rest and renewal?
- What does God prioritizing slavery laws first teach about His heart for the oppressed?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 12:44, 22:3, Deuteronomy 15:1, 15:18, 31:10, Nehemiah 5:8