How does this verse reflect God's care for the vulnerable in society? Setting the Scene: Exodus 21:10 “If he takes another wife, he must not diminish the food, clothing, or marital rights of his first wife.” Why This Law Matters • The verse sits in a passage regulating how an Israelite man could receive a female servant as his wife (Exodus 21:7–11). • In that culture, women—especially servant-wives—were economically and socially vulnerable. • God steps in with a binding command: even if the husband adds another wife, the first woman’s needs and dignity remain non-negotiable. Three Built-in Protections 1. Food – Her basic sustenance must stay constant. No rationing, no neglect. 2. Clothing – Ongoing provision for daily and seasonal garments, a symbol of security and honor (cf. Proverbs 31:21). 3. Marital rights – Continued intimacy and emotional commitment, affirming her full status as wife, not property. Echoes Through the Rest of Scripture • Exodus 22:22-24 – “You shall not mistreat any widow or fatherless child…” God vows to hear their cry. • Deuteronomy 10:18 – He “executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing.” • Psalm 146:9 – “The LORD watches over the stranger; He sustains the fatherless and widow.” • Malachi 3:5 – Judgment promised against those who oppress wage-earners, widows, or orphans. • James 1:27 – Pure religion is “to care for orphans and widows in their distress.” God’s concern in Exodus 21:10 is not an isolated rule; it harmonizes with the wider biblical melody of safeguarding the powerless. What This Teaches Us About God’s Character • He is protective: He writes justice into law where society might overlook it. • He is personal: He cares about everyday details—meals, clothes, affection. • He is impartial: Social standing never diminishes a person’s worth before Him. Living It Out Today • Honor marital vows by providing for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of one’s spouse. • Champion protections for the marginalized: single parents, refugees, trafficking survivors, the elderly. • Support policies and ministries that ensure basic necessities—food, shelter, medical care—are not withheld from those with little voice. • Model God’s heart in personal relationships: treat every person as image-bearer, never as expendable or replaceable. |
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