What is the meaning of Exodus 21:8? If she is displeasing in the eyes of her master - The verse begins with the possibility that the young woman, sold by her family into a household (Exodus 21:7), no longer finds favor with the master. - Scripture consistently protects the vulnerable; compare Deuteronomy 24:14–15, where employers must treat hired workers justly. - The phrase reminds us that God sees injustice and expects fairness in every relationship (Psalm 146:7-9). who had designated her for himself - The master originally intended to marry her, turning her status from servant to wife (see Exodus 21:7-9). - This arrangement made her covenantally significant, akin to the betrothal protections later reflected in Deuteronomy 22:23-24. - By claiming her “for himself,” the man accepted responsibilities parallel to those of any husband under Genesis 2:24 and Ephesians 5:25. he must allow her to be redeemed - Because he rejects her, he must open the door for a kinsman or family member to buy her freedom, restoring her dignity (Leviticus 25:47-49). - Redemption safeguards her future, preventing her from being trapped in an unwanted union. - The concept foreshadows Christ’s redemptive work for believers (1 Peter 1:18-19). He has no right to sell her to foreigners - God forbids treating her as mere property to be traded abroad, where she would lose covenantal protections (Amos 2:6). - The restriction upholds Israel’s identity as a people liberated from Egyptian oppression (Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 24:17-18). - It also curbs greed, reminding masters that financial gain never justifies betrayal (Proverbs 22:22-23). since he has broken faith with her - “Broken faith” exposes the man’s failure to keep his word, paralleling Malachi 2:14, where breaking covenant with one’s wife is condemned. - God’s character sets the standard: He keeps covenant love (Deuteronomy 7:9); His people must reflect that reliability. - Treachery against the vulnerable invites divine displeasure (Isaiah 10:1-3). summary Exodus 21:8 shows God defending a young woman who has suffered broken promises. If the master withdraws his intent to marry her, he must (1) give her the chance to be redeemed by her family, (2) refrain from selling her to outsiders, and (3) own his breach of trust. The verse underscores the Lord’s heart for justice, fidelity, and redemption—values that still guide believers in honoring commitments and protecting the vulnerable. |
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