Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "house-servant" refers to individuals who were employed or enslaved to perform domestic duties within a household. The role and status of house-servants varied significantly across different cultures and historical contexts within the biblical narrative.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, house-servants were often part of the patriarchal household structure. They could be either hired workers or slaves, and their duties included a wide range of domestic tasks. The Hebrew word often translated as "servant" is "ebed," which can mean both servant and slave, depending on the context. Abraham's household provides an early example of the presence of house-servants. Genesis 24:2 mentions Abraham's chief servant, who was entrusted with significant responsibilities: "So Abraham instructed the chief servant of his household, who managed all he owned, 'Place your hand under my thigh.'" This indicates a level of trust and authority given to certain servants within the household. The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations regarding the treatment of servants. For instance, Exodus 21:2-6 outlines the conditions under which Hebrew servants were to be released after six years of service, highlighting a concern for humane treatment and the dignity of servants. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "doulos" is commonly used to refer to servants or slaves. The role of house-servants in the Greco-Roman world, where the New Testament was written, was an integral part of the social and economic structure. Servants were often considered part of the household, and their duties could range from menial tasks to managing household affairs. Jesus frequently used the imagery of servants in His parables to convey spiritual truths. In Luke 12:37, He speaks of the blessedness of servants who are found watching for their master's return: "Blessed are those servants whom the master finds on watch when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, and will have them recline at the table, and he himself will come and serve them." The Apostle Paul also addressed the relationship between masters and servants in his epistles. In Ephesians 6:5-8, Paul instructs servants to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would obey Christ: "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ." This exhortation emphasizes the spiritual dimension of a servant's work, encouraging them to serve wholeheartedly as serving the Lord. Spiritual Implications The concept of servanthood is central to the Christian faith, with Jesus Himself exemplifying the ultimate servant-leader. In Mark 10:45, Jesus declares, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." This model of servanthood challenges believers to adopt an attitude of humility and service in their relationships with others. The New Testament also presents the idea of believers as servants of Christ. In Romans 6:22, Paul writes, "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you reap leads to holiness, and the outcome is eternal life." This metaphor underscores the transformation from bondage to sin to a life of willing service to God. Cultural and Historical Considerations Understanding the role of house-servants in biblical times requires consideration of the cultural and historical context. While the institution of servitude in the ancient world often involved harsh conditions, the biblical narrative includes principles that promote justice, mercy, and the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their social status. The biblical portrayal of house-servants, therefore, serves as a lens through which to view broader themes of service, stewardship, and the kingdom of God, where the last shall be first, and the greatest is the servant of all. Greek 3610b. oiketes -- a house servant ... a house servant. Transliteration: oiketes Short Definition: servant. Word Origin from oikeo Definition a house servant NASB Word Usage servant (2), servants (2) ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3610b.htm - 5k Library Joseph, a Servant, a Prisoner, and a Saint. A Powerless Christianity. A Prince's Bride Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness ... Thesaurus House-servant (2 Occurrences)House-servant. House's, House-servant. House-servants . Multi-Version Concordance House-servant (2 Occurrences). Luke ... /h/house-servant.htm - 7k Needs (85 Occurrences) Domestic (5 Occurrences) Bearer (23 Occurrences) Wealth (340 Occurrences) House's (1 Occurrence) House-servants (1 Occurrence) Plunder (118 Occurrences) Chief (696 Occurrences) Household (222 Occurrences) Resources Why didn't God allow David to build the temple? | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophecies did Jesus fulfill? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance House-servant (2 Occurrences)Luke 8:3 Jeremiah 2:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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