Book of Exodus - Chapter 21 - Verse 4

The verse you've read reflects the laws and customs of ancient times, specifically concerning slavery and the ownership of individuals. In this context, if a male slave was given a wife by his master and they had children, once the slave's term of service was completed, he would leave the household alone, and his wife and children would remain with his master. This practice was common in many ancient cultures and was a way for the master to increase his workforce through the children born to the slave and his wife. It is important to interpret this verse in its historical and cultural context, understanding the dynamics of slavery in ancient societies. While this practice may seem harsh and unjust to us today, it was considered acceptable in those times.

Within the theological interpretation of the verse, the focus is primarily on the concept of ownership and authority in ancient biblical times. This verse is part of the laws outlined in the Book of Exodus regarding the treatment of Hebrew slaves. The verse highlights the harsh reality that a slave's family belonged to the master, reinforcing the idea that slaves were considered property at that time. The wife and children born to the slave were not granted freedom along with their father but remained under the ownership of the master. This practice reflects the cultural norms of the period and serves as a reminder of the harsh conditions endured by slaves in ancient society.

Word studies of this verse can provide insight into the specific terms used and their implications. The term "wife" in this context refers to a woman given to the slave by his master for the purpose of bearing children. The word "children" emphasizes the issue of lineage and inheritance. The phrase "he shall go out by himself" indicates that the slave, after serving his time, was permitted to leave his master's household without his family, further emphasizing the separation and lack of autonomy experienced by slaves.