In the biblical context, the term "servants" often refers to individuals who were in a position of servitude, which could include slaves or bondservants. The practice of circumcision for foreign servants is rooted in the Abrahamic covenant and is addressed in several passages of the Old Testament.

The Abrahamic Covenant and Circumcision

The practice of circumcision as a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham is first introduced in Genesis 17. God commands Abraham to circumcise every male in his household, including those born in his house or bought with money from a foreigner:

"He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised. Every male throughout your generations, whether born in your household or bought with your money from a foreigner, must be circumcised." (Genesis 17:12)

This command establishes circumcision as a physical sign of the covenant, extending beyond Abraham's direct descendants to include all males within his household, regardless of their origin.

Inclusion of Foreign Servants

The inclusion of foreign servants in the rite of circumcision signifies their incorporation into the covenant community. This practice underscores the comprehensive nature of the covenant, which encompasses not only the biological descendants of Abraham but also those who are part of his household through servitude.

In Exodus 12, the instructions for the observance of the Passover further emphasize the requirement for circumcision among foreign servants. The passage stipulates that no uncircumcised person may eat the Passover meal, but if a foreigner residing with the Israelites wishes to celebrate the Passover, all the males in his household must be circumcised:

"But if a stranger sojourns with you and wants to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, all his males must be circumcised, and then he may come near to celebrate it; he shall be like a native of the land. But no uncircumcised man may eat of it." (Exodus 12:48)

This requirement highlights the importance of circumcision as a prerequisite for full participation in the religious life of Israel, symbolizing a commitment to the God of Israel and an acceptance of His covenant.

Theological Implications

The circumcision of foreign servants reflects the inclusive nature of God's covenant with Abraham, which anticipates the eventual inclusion of all nations in the blessings promised to Abraham. It serves as a precursor to the New Testament understanding of the covenant community, where faith in Christ, rather than physical circumcision, becomes the defining mark of inclusion.

The practice also illustrates the hierarchical social structures of the ancient Near East, where servitude was a common institution. However, the requirement for circumcision indicates a level of spiritual equality and shared identity within the covenant community, transcending ethnic and social boundaries.

Conclusion

The biblical mandate for the circumcision of foreign servants within the household of Abraham and later among the Israelites underscores the comprehensive nature of God's covenant. It reflects the theological principle of inclusion and foreshadows the broader scope of God's redemptive plan, which ultimately embraces all peoples through faith.Genesis 17:13,27
He that is born in your house, and he that is bought with your money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 12:44
But every man's servant that is bought for money, when you have circumcised him, then shall he eat thereof.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

A Treatise of the Fear of God;
... by the text, is released; also the bond and release ... is, he overthroweth the testimony
of his servants; for they ... after that to tell us we are slaves and heirs ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a treatise of the fear.htm

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