Exodus 21:2

If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.

Exodus 21:2 (KJV)

Context

Exodus 21:2 opens a section of laws God gave Israel after their deliverance from Egypt. These laws governed daily life, including the treatment of Hebrew servants. In ancient Israel, a person might become a servant because of poverty, debt, or even theft. The Targum of Jonathan paraphrases this verse as referring to one sold because of theft. This verse protects the rights of such servants, showing God’s concern for justice and mercy even within the social structures of that time.

Meaning

The verse sets a clear limit: a Hebrew servant serves six years, and in the seventh year he goes out free for nothing. The phrase “free for nothing” means he owes no payment for his release. Servitude was not lifelong. It had a fixed end, giving the servant hope and dignity. The law also implies that during those six years, the master must treat the servant fairly, for God cared about justice even in this social structure. This limited term of service was a safeguard against permanent bondage, ensuring that no Israelite would remain a servant forever.

Biblical connections

This six-year limit points to a larger pattern of release and restoration in Scripture. The Year of Jubilee, described in Leviticus 25, came every fifty years and brought freedom to all, return of land, and forgiveness of debts. Both laws show God’s concern for preventing permanent bondage and for resetting social and economic inequalities. The release of Hebrew servants foreshadows the greater freedom God provides through Christ, who proclaimed liberty to captives (Luke 4:18). This redemptive pattern—a period of service followed by freedom—points to God’s deliverance and the ultimate liberty found in Him. The principle of release also echoes the Exodus itself, where God freed Israel from slavery in Egypt, making this law a reminder of His saving power.

Application

Though we do not follow these ancient servitude laws today, the underlying principles remain. God values human dignity and fair treatment. Believers are called to honor commitments, treat workers and employees with respect, and avoid exploiting others. The promise of release after a set time also encourages us to give people second chances and to work for justice in our communities. As God’s people, we are called to reflect His character in our relationships and societal structures, treating others with equity and compassion. This includes being mindful of how we treat those who serve us, whether in the workplace or at home, and ensuring that our actions promote dignity and hope.

Reflection

This verse reminds us that God is a God of freedom. Just as the Hebrew servant went out free, so Christ sets us free from sin’s bondage. We can thank Him for that deliverance and live as people who reflect His justice and mercy in all our relationships.