In biblical times, house-servants played a significant role in the daily life and economy of ancient households. These individuals, often referred to as "servants" or "slaves" in various translations of the Bible, were integral to the functioning of both modest homes and large estates. The term "house-servant" encompasses a range of roles, from domestic workers to those entrusted with significant responsibilities within the household.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous references to house-servants, reflecting their importance in ancient Israelite society. In Genesis 24, Abraham's servant, likely Eliezer, is tasked with finding a wife for Isaac, demonstrating the trust and responsibility placed upon house-servants. Genesis 24:2-4 states, "So Abraham instructed the chief servant of his household, who managed all he owned, 'Place your hand under my thigh, and I will have 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.'"

The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations regarding the treatment of servants, emphasizing humane and just treatment. Exodus 21:2 instructs, "If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free, without paying anything." This law highlights the temporary nature of servitude among the Israelites and the provision for eventual freedom.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, house-servants are frequently mentioned in the context of parables and teachings of Jesus. The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 illustrates the relationship between a master and his servants, emphasizing stewardship and accountability. Matthew 25:21 records the master's commendation: "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!'"

The Apostle Paul addresses the conduct of house-servants in his epistles, urging them to serve their earthly masters with sincerity and respect, as serving Christ. Ephesians 6:5-8 advises, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. And do this not only to please them while they are watching, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart."

Cultural and Social Implications

House-servants in biblical times were often part of the extended household, and their status could vary widely. Some were born into servitude, while others became servants due to debt or poverty. Despite their lower social status, house-servants could hold positions of considerable influence and trust, as seen in the case of Joseph, who rose to prominence in Potiphar's house (Genesis 39).

The biblical narrative acknowledges the humanity and dignity of house-servants, urging fair treatment and respect. The principles laid out in Scripture regarding servitude reflect a broader divine ethic of justice, mercy, and compassion, which transcends cultural and historical contexts.

On the Road to Jerusalem
... So by the time the house servants of the merchant were made aware of their peril
by the death of one of their own number, Philip of Tyre with the courage of ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the city of delight/chapter ii on the road.htm

The Story of a Divine Tragedy
... Laodice dumbly wondered if she were to be classed with the house servants
while she waited until the return of her devoted old mute. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the city of delight/chapter x the story of.htm

On Family Religion
... Servants also, whether by the day, or for a longer space, if you cannot reclaim,
either by reasoning added to your example, or by gentle or severe reproofs ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 94 on family religion.htm

The City of Gold
... some lady might go by in her litter, escorted by her household, from the handicraft
slaves and the kitchen staff, to the eunuchs and house-servants"all this ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bertrand/saint augustin/i the city of gold.htm

1869-1870. Emigration of Families --A visitor's Impressions --The ...
... As it was, we left twenty-three, and all in excellent situations. Some of
the best were picked out, numbers of them as house-servants. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/lowe/gods answers/chapter ii 1869-1870 emigration of.htm

House-servants (1 Occurrence)
House-servants. House-servant, House-servants. Housetop .
Multi-Version Concordance House-servants (1 Occurrence). Acts ...
/h/house-servants.htm - 6k

Waiting (274 Occurrences)
... Acts 10:7 And when the angel who said these words to him had gone away, he sent
for two of his house-servants, and a God-fearing man of the army, one of those ...
/w/waiting.htm - 35k

Housetop (10 Occurrences)

/h/housetop.htm - 9k

Family (438 Occurrences)
... But the list of things enumerated in the commandment comprises the things
most common to family life: house, servants, animals. ...
/f/family.htm - 87k

House-servant (2 Occurrences)
House-servant. House's, House-servant. House-servants . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). House's, House-servant. House-servants . Reference Bible.
/h/house-servant.htm - 7k

Army (401 Occurrences)
... Acts 10:7 And when the angel who said these words to him had gone away, he sent
for two of his house-servants, and a God-fearing man of the army, one of those ...
/a/army.htm - 76k

What is a house blessing? Is a house blessing biblical? | GotQuestions.org

What can we learn from the account of Potiphar's wife? | GotQuestions.org

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