Old Testament

Exodus 21:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, a servant has a choice to make about his future.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

But if the servant openly declares, 'I love my master, my wife, and my children — I don't want to go free,'

KJVKing James Version

And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, a servant has a choice to make about his future. If he truly loves his master, his family, and the life he has built, he can choose to stay instead of gaining his freedom. This decision reflects deep loyalty and commitment. It shows that sometimes, love and relationships can be more important than personal freedom. The servant's declaration is a powerful statement about valuing what he has over what he could gain. It highlights the idea that true freedom isn't just about being able to leave; it's also about choosing to stay where you feel loved and valued. This choice is not made lightly, as it involves a deep emotional connection to his master and family. The servant's love leads him to prioritize his relationships over his own independence, illustrating the complexity of human emotions and commitments in life. This verse invites us to reflect on our own relationships and what we are willing to sacrifice for those we love, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and love in our lives.

Key themes

Related topics

loyalty, commitment, freedom

How to apply Exodus 21:5 to your life

Consider the relationships in your life. Are there commitments you are willing to make that prioritize love and loyalty over personal gain? Reflect on what truly matters to you and how you can express that through your choices and actions. Sometimes, staying is the bravest choice you can make for those you love. Embrace the value of your connections and the sacrifices that come with them. This can lead to deeper fulfillment.

Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Exodus 21:5 teach about loyalty?

Exodus 21:5 illustrates the concept of loyalty through the servant's choice to remain with his master despite having the option to gain freedom. This decision highlights that true loyalty often involves prioritizing relationships and commitments over personal desires or independence. It emphasizes that love for family and community can lead individuals to make sacrifices that reflect their values and connections.

How does this verse relate to modern relationships?

In modern relationships, Exodus 21:5 serves as a reminder of the importance of commitment and loyalty. It encourages individuals to consider what they value most in their relationships and the sacrifices they are willing to make for those they love. Just as the servant chooses to stay with his master and family, people today can reflect on their own commitments and the depth of their emotional connections.

How can I apply the message of this verse in my life?

To apply the message of Exodus 21:5, reflect on your own relationships and consider the commitments you are willing to make. Think about how you can prioritize love and loyalty in your decisions, whether in family, friendships, or partnerships. Embrace the idea that sometimes, staying and nurturing your connections can lead to greater fulfillment than pursuing independence or personal gain.

What does Exodus 21:5 mean?

Exodus 21:5 centers on loyalty. In this verse, a servant has a choice to make about his future.

The Book of Exodus
Book Summary

The Book of Exodus

Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt

The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.

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