A body-servant, in biblical times, refers to a personal attendant or servant who is closely associated with their master, often attending to their personal needs and accompanying them in various aspects of daily life. This role is distinct from other types of servants or slaves, as a body-servant typically had a more intimate and trusted relationship with their master.

Biblical Context and Examples

The concept of a body-servant can be seen in various passages throughout the Bible, where individuals of prominence often had personal attendants. These servants were entrusted with significant responsibilities and were expected to demonstrate loyalty and discretion.

One notable example is found in the account of Eliezer, the servant of Abraham. Although not explicitly called a "body-servant," Eliezer's role as a trusted servant is evident. In Genesis 24, Abraham entrusts Eliezer with the critical task of finding a wife for his son Isaac. This task required not only loyalty but also a deep understanding of Abraham's wishes and values. Genesis 24:2-4 states, "So Abraham said to the servant, the oldest of his household who was in charge of all that he owned, 'Please place your hand under my thigh, and I will make you swear by the LORD, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you will not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites among whom I am dwelling, but will go to my country and to my kindred to take a wife for my son Isaac.'"

Another example is found in the relationship between King Saul and David. Before David became king, he served Saul in various capacities, including as a musician and armor-bearer. In 1 Samuel 16:21 , it is written, "When David came to Saul and entered his service, Saul admired him greatly, and David became his armor-bearer." Although David's role evolved over time, his initial position as an armor-bearer reflects the duties of a body-servant, attending to the personal needs of Saul and providing close support.

Cultural and Historical Insights

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the role of a body-servant was significant. These servants were often chosen for their loyalty, reliability, and ability to maintain confidentiality. They were privy to the personal and private affairs of their masters, which required a high level of trust. The relationship between a master and a body-servant could be one of mutual respect, although it was still within the framework of servitude.

Body-servants were sometimes elevated to positions of influence due to their proximity to power. Their insights and opinions could be valued by their masters, and they might be entrusted with sensitive tasks or missions. This close relationship, however, also meant that body-servants were expected to demonstrate unwavering loyalty and obedience.

Theological Reflections

From a theological perspective, the role of a body-servant can be seen as a metaphor for servanthood and faithfulness. The Bible often emphasizes the virtues of humility, service, and loyalty, which are embodied in the role of a body-servant. Jesus Himself exemplified the ultimate servant-leader, as described in Philippians 2:7 : "but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness."

The concept of servanthood is central to Christian teaching, where believers are called to serve God and others selflessly. The role of a body-servant in biblical narratives serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness, trust, and dedication in one's relationship with God and fellow humans.

Letter xiv. To Heliodorus, Monk.
... Now it is the slaves, your foster-brothers, who cry, "To what master are you leaving
us?" Now it is a nurse bowed with age, and a body-servant loved only less ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xiv to heliodorus monk.htm

Gethsemane
... [5876] The definite article here marks that he was, in a special sense, the servant
of the High-Priest - his body-servant. [5877] St. Matthew. ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter xii gethsemane.htm

Christ's Curate in Decapolis
... to Christ. It is remarkable that Christ took nobody to be his body-servant,
or personal attendant during his earthly ministry. He ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 38 1892/christs curate in decapolis.htm

Body-servant (1 Occurrence)
Body-servant. Body's, Body-servant. Bog . Multi-Version Concordance
Body-servant (1 Occurrence). Judges 9:54 Then quickly ...
/b/body-servant.htm - 6k

Body's (3 Occurrences)

/b/body's.htm - 7k

Bog (1 Occurrence)

/b/bog.htm - 7k

Causing (248 Occurrences)
... Judges 9:54 Then quickly crying out to his body-servant, he said to him, Take out
your sword and put an end to me straight away, so that men may not say of me ...
/c/causing.htm - 38k

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