Exodus 21:2 (KJV)

What does Exodus 21:2 mean?

Exodus 21:2 says that if someone buys a Hebrew servant, that servant must work for six years, but in the seventh year, the servant is to be set free without having to pay anything. This rule sets a clear limit on how long a Hebrew could be held as a servant by another Hebrew.

In this verse, God is giving laws to Moses for the people of Israel, specifically about how to treat Hebrew servants. The setting is just after the Ten Commandments, as God lays out detailed instructions for community life. The verse shows that servitude among Hebrews was not meant to be permanent, and it emphasizes freedom and fair treatment within their society.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 21:2

• עֶבֶד (ʿeved, H5650): This word means "servant" or "slave." In this context, it refers to a Hebrew person who has become a servant, often because of debt or poverty, but not in the sense of permanent slavery.
• חָפְשִׁי (ḥofshi, H2670): This word means "free." The use of this term highlights that the servant is to be released with full freedom, not just a change of status or partial release.
• חִנָּם (ḥinnam, H2600): This word means "for nothing" or "without payment." It clarifies that the servant does not owe anything to gain freedom; it is a right after six years of service.

Why Exodus 21:2 matters

• Exodus 21:2 corrects the idea that servitude in ancient Israel was lifelong or harsh by setting a maximum term and guaranteeing release.
• The verse connects to the larger theme of justice and compassion in the laws given to Israel, showing that even those in difficult circumstances were to be treated with dignity.
• This law also sets the stage for later biblical ideas about release, such as the Year of Jubilee, where freedom and restoration are emphasized for all Israelites.