Question 1

What does Exodus 21:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

Exodus 21:20 says that if a man strikes his male or female servant with a rod and the servant dies as a result, the man must be punished. This law sets a clear consequence for causing the death of a servant through violence. In this passage, God is giving laws to Moses for the Israelites, specifically about how people should treat their servants. The verse addresses a situation where someone in authority harms a servant so severely that the servant dies. The law emphasizes that even those with power over others are not allowed to act without accountability, and that the life of a servant is protected by legal consequences.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Exodus 21:20

Accepted Answer

"smite" (נָכָה, nakah) means to strike or hit, often with force. Here, it highlights a violent act, not just a minor blow. "servant" (עֶבֶד, eved) and "maid" (אָמָה, amah) refer to male and female servants, showing the law applies to both genders. "rod" (שֵׁבֶט, shevet) is a stick or staff, often used for discipline but here becomes an instrument of fatal harm. "surely punished" (נָקָם יִנָּקֵם, naqam yinnaqem) is a strong phrase meaning definite vengeance or retribution, stressing that justice must be served.

Question 3

Why Exodus 21:20 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse corrects the idea that servants in ancient Israel had no legal protection; it shows that their lives were valued and protected by law. The verse fits into a larger section where God gives laws to limit violence and set standards for justice, even within households. By requiring punishment for the death of a servant, the law challenges the idea that masters had absolute power and sets a precedent for accountability.

Exodus 21:20 (KJV)