Exodus 21:27 meaning
In ancient Israel, laws governing servant relationships were vital to maintain social order and moral conduct. Among these laws, the stipulation concerning an injury inflicted upon a servant holds a significant place, emphasizing the responsibility and accountability of masters. The context highlights how these regulations were intended to protect vulnerable individuals within society. The specific provision states that if a master were to injure a servant, leading to the loss of an eye or a tooth, the servant was to be freed as compensation for the suffering endured. This reflects both a humane approach to servitude and an acknowledgment of the inherent dignity of the individual, even in a system that permitted slavery.
This command illustrates the ethical obligations inherent in the master-servant relationship, insisting that even those in positions of authority must uphold justice and respect for life. Such principles resonate with contemporary discussions on ethics and justice, particularly regarding the treatment of employees and those in subordinate positions in any society. This verse effectively reinforces the value of fair treatment, linking personal rights and dignity to broader moral and ethical standards, encapsulated in the idea of justice as fundamentally rooted in the recognition of human worth. The relevant scripture reference is Exodus 21:27.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Exodus 21:18-27 meaning. Here are the judgements for four instances of violence done to a person where the victim does not die. The four instances are: violence between free people, violence done to servants, violence done to a pregnant woman which causes the loss of her baby, and bodily injury to a servant.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Exodus 22:16-24 meaning. Here are various offenses against persons and against God's order. This passage deals with the consequences for someone living a life disloyal to the covenant. The LORD prohibits the abuse of society's vulnerable—strangers, widows, and orphans.
- Exodus 21:18-27 meaning. Here are the judgements for four instances of violence done to a person where the victim does not die. The four instances are: violence between free people, violence done to servants, violence done to a pregnant woman which causes the loss of her baby, and bodily injury to a servant.
- Exodus 30:11-16 meaning. The LORD describes what can be labeled as a "tabernacle tax." Moses was to take a census and receive a "ransom" (a half a shekel) from everyone twenty years or older. The money was to be used to maintain the tabernacle.
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