Old Testament
Exodus 21:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a situation where a servant chooses to remain with his master after his period of service is over.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Then his master shall bring him to the judges; he shall also take him to the door or the doorpost, and his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall serve him forever.
Then his master shall bring him unto the judges; he shall also bring him to the door, or unto the door post; and his master shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for ever.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a situation where a servant chooses to remain with his master after his period of service is over. The master takes the servant to the judges, which is a formal way to ensure that the decision is recognized. By piercing the servant's ear with an awl at the doorpost, it symbolizes a permanent commitment. This act signifies that the servant willingly chooses to serve his master for life, indicating loyalty and dedication. The doorpost represents a threshold, marking a significant decision in the servant's life. This practice highlights the importance of choice and commitment in relationships. It also reflects the idea of belonging and the bonds that can form between individuals. The servant's decision to stay is not forced; it is a personal choice that carries deep meaning and responsibility. This passage invites us to consider our own commitments and the significance of the choices we make in our lives, especially regarding loyalty and service to others.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 21:6 to your life
Reflect on your own commitments and the relationships in your life. Are you choosing to stay in them out of loyalty or obligation? Consider how your choices shape your identity and the bonds you create with others. Make decisions that reflect your true values and desires, fostering meaningful connections with those around you. Embrace the power of choice in your life and relationships, ensuring they align with your heart's intentions.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 21:6 mean about serving a master forever?
Exodus 21:6 describes a situation where a servant chooses to remain with their master after their period of service ends. This decision is formalized by taking the servant to the judges and piercing their ear with an awl at the doorpost, symbolizing a lifelong commitment. It highlights the themes of loyalty and dedication, emphasizing that the servant's choice is voluntary and reflects a deep bond with the master.
Why is the ear pierced in Exodus 21:6?
The act of piercing the ear in Exodus 21:6 serves as a physical symbol of the servant's commitment to serve their master for life. The ear, being a sensitive part of the body, signifies the servant's willingness to listen and obey. This ritual marks a significant decision in the servant's life, representing loyalty and the importance of choice in relationships.
What can we learn about commitment from Exodus 21:6?
Exodus 21:6 teaches us about the importance of commitment and the choices we make in our relationships. It encourages us to reflect on whether our commitments stem from genuine loyalty or obligation. The passage invites us to consider how our decisions shape our identities and the bonds we create, urging us to embrace commitments that align with our true values and desires.
How does Exodus 21:6 relate to modern relationships?
Exodus 21:6 can be applied to modern relationships by emphasizing the significance of choice and commitment. Just as the servant willingly chooses to stay with their master, we are encouraged to evaluate our own relationships. Are we in them out of love and loyalty, or are we feeling obligated? This verse prompts us to foster meaningful connections based on mutual respect and genuine commitment.
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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