Exodus 21:3 (KJV)

What does Exodus 21:3 mean?

Exodus 21:3 says that if a Hebrew servant began his service alone, he must leave alone when his term is over; but if he was married when he became a servant, his wife is allowed to leave with him. This rule sets out how a servant’s family situation affects his release after serving.

In this passage, God is giving Moses laws for the Israelites about how to treat Hebrew servants. The verse is part of a set of instructions about fairness and dignity for servants, making clear distinctions based on whether the servant had a wife before his service began. The law aims to protect family unity when possible, but also shows that the servant’s original status determines what happens at the end of his service.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 21:3

• "in" (בָּא, ba): This word means "to come in," referring to how the servant entered into service. It highlights that the law is based on the servant’s situation at the start.
• "himself" (גַּפּוֹ, gappo): This word means "by himself" or "alone." It emphasizes that if the servant started out single, he leaves single, showing the law’s focus on the servant’s original condition.
• "married" (בַּעַל, ba‘al and אִשָּׁה, ishah): The phrase uses both words, meaning "husband" and "wife," to clarify that the servant’s marital status is what matters for whether his wife goes free with him.
• "wife" (אִשָּׁה, ishah): This word specifically means "wife," making it clear that the law is about a married man and his spouse.
• "out" (יָצָא, yatza): This word means "to go out" or "to leave," used both for the servant and his wife, showing that their release is linked if they entered together.

Why Exodus 21:3 matters

• This verse clears up that a servant’s family status at the start of his service determines whether his wife is released with him, preventing confusion or unfair separation.
• It highlights the law’s concern for protecting family relationships, but also its careful attention to the exact terms of a servant’s entry into service.
• In the broader context, this rule is part of a larger set of laws that aim to ensure justice and humane treatment for Hebrew servants, showing that their personal lives and dignity are considered.