Exodus 21:3

If he came in by himself, he shall go out by himself: if he were married, then his wife shall go out with him.

Exodus 21:3 (KJV)

Context

Exodus 21:3 belongs to the Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:22–23:33), a collection of laws God gave through Moses for Israel. These statutes governed social, civil, and criminal life. This verse appears in the rule about releasing Hebrew servants in the seventh year (Exodus 21:2). The law is simple: a servant’s status at entry determines his status at exit.

Meaning

The verse sets a clear principle. “If he came in by himself” means he entered service alone, perhaps because of debt or hardship. Then “he shall go out by himself,” leaving the household without a wife. But “if he were married, then his wife shall go out with him,” so a pre-existing marriage is preserved. The law protects the servant from being separated from his family and stops the master from gaining unfair advantage. It also shows that rights and obligations are tied to circumstances at the start of an agreement.

Biblical connections

This law reflects God’s care for vulnerable workers and the sanctity of marriage. The next verse (Exodus 21:4) covers a wife given by the master during servitude, showing the law’s careful fairness. For Christians, this order points to the greater freedom Christ provides, though the immediate context is civil law for ancient Israel.

Application

God’s concern for just treatment and family unity still guides believers. Fairness means honoring commitments made at the start of an agreement. Treat workers and family members with dignity, reflecting God’s compassion. This principle also encourages integrity in our own promises and contracts.

Reflection

This verse reminds us that God sees the details of human relationships. His laws aimed to limit harshness and protect the vulnerable. We can trust His order and care in our own lives, knowing that He values fairness and family.