Book of Exodus - Chapter 21 - Verse 7

When interpreting the verse "And if a man sell his daughter to be a maidservant, she shall not go out as the menservants do," it is important to consider the historical and cultural context in which it was written. In ancient societies, including Biblical times, it was not uncommon for children to be sold into servitude as a means of paying off debts or securing a better future for them. This verse specifically addresses the practice of selling a daughter into servitude, highlighting the distinction between the treatment of male and female servants. In this case, the daughter was to be treated differently from male servants, indicating a level of protection and care that was deemed necessary. While the concept of selling daughters into servitude may seem archaic and disturbing by modern standards, this verse serves as a reminder of the unequal treatment of women in ancient societies and the importance of understanding the historical context when interpreting biblical texts.

In this verse, the idea of a man selling his daughter into servitude may seem troubling to contemporary readers. However, it is important to understand the cultural and historical context in which this practice occurred. In ancient societies, including Israel, it was not uncommon for families to sell their daughters into slavery as a means of providing for their basic needs. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that while the practice of selling one's daughter into servitude may have been accepted in ancient times, it does not align with the values of love and equality that are central to the teachings of the Bible. It is crucial to remember that the Bible was written in a specific historical context, and that the moral principles it espouses must be understood within that context.

Word studies on this verse may shed light on the concept of 'maidservant' and 'menservants'. In the original Hebrew text, the word translated as maidservant is 'amah', which can also mean female slave. This indicates that the daughters sold into servitude were not merely hired help, but actual slaves. On the other hand, the word 'menservants' refers to male slaves who were bound by different rules and circumstances. Understanding the nuances of these terms can provide a deeper insight into the social structures and hierarchies that existed in ancient times.