How does Exodus 21:8 reflect God's concern for justice in servitude? Key verse “ ‘If she is displeasing in the eyes of her master who has designated her for himself, he must allow her to be redeemed. He has no right to sell her to foreigners, since he has broken faith with her.’ ” (Exodus 21:8) Historical setting • In ancient Israel a father could sell a daughter as a bond-servant, often with the expectation that she would eventually be taken as a wife by the master or his son (Exodus 21:7, 9). • Other Near-Eastern codes treated such women as mere property; God’s law stands apart by building in safeguards. • Verse 8 zeroes in on the moment when the master changes his mind—when “she is displeasing” and marriage will not occur. God’s protective intent • Mandatory right of redemption – The master “must allow her to be redeemed.” – Redemption price brought freedom and restored her to family or kin (Leviticus 25:48-49). • Absolute ban on trafficking – “He has no right to sell her to foreigners.” – Prevents profit-driven resale and the terror of exile. • Moral accountability stated bluntly – “He has broken faith with her.” – God names the breach of trust and holds the powerful to their word. Justice reflected • Dignity of the vulnerable – The woman is not a disposable asset; God calls her personhood to the forefront (Proverbs 14:31). • Limits on human authority – Even masters operate under divine boundaries (Deuteronomy 24:14-15). • Restoration, not exploitation – The aim is release or rightful marriage, never endless bondage. • Foreshadowing the gospel pattern – Redemption language anticipates the greater redemption accomplished in Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19). Echoes in wider Scripture • Leviticus 25:42: “They are to be My servants… they must not be sold as slaves.” • Deuteronomy 15:15: “Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you.” • Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” • Colossians 4:1: “Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” Practical takeaways • God defends the powerless and expects His people to mirror that concern. • Promises and contracts must be honored; breaking faith invites divine scrutiny. • Any system of labor or authority is judged by how it treats the least protected. • The redemption principle motivates believers to champion freedom—spiritually and socially—for others. |
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