Exodus 21:27

And if he smite out his manservant’s tooth, or his maidservant’s tooth; he shall let him go free for his tooth’s sake.

Exodus 21:27 (KJV)

Context

This verse stands inside the Book of the Covenant, a collection of laws given to Israel after the Exodus. These laws guided the nation’s life and included specific protections for servants.

Meaning

In the ancient Near East, slavery was common, even among Israelites. This law protected servants from cruel masters. If a master knocked out a tooth of a male or female servant, the servant had to be set free. The loss of a tooth, though less severe than the loss of an eye, still brought freedom. The law applied equally to men and women, showing that God valued both.

This rule did not approve slavery. Instead, it limited harsh practices and gave servants a way out. The master bore the cost of his own violence. The servant gained liberty as compensation for the injury. This was a form of restitution, making the punishment fit the harm done. The principle of equity is clear: the release is proportional to the injury, and the master cannot escape responsibility.

Biblical connections

The law reflects the principle of “eye for eye, tooth for tooth” found in Exodus 21:24. That rule did not encourage revenge; it limited punishment so that it stayed fair and proportionate. In the New Testament, Jesus taught about non-retaliation in Matthew 5:38-42. He moved beyond legal retribution to personal forgiveness, but the care for the vulnerable remained. The release of the servant also points to the greater freedom Christ gives. Philippians 2:7-8 says Christ took the form of a servant and gave Himself for our sake. Just as the servant’s release came through the master’s loss, our freedom comes through Christ’s sacrifice.

Application

Though slavery is not practiced today, this verse still speaks to relationships of authority and power. Employers, leaders, and parents must treat those under their care with fairness and respect. God sees when the weak are harmed, and He defends them. Believers are called to uphold justice, kindness, and dignity for every person, whatever their position. This includes speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves and ensuring that our own actions never exploit others.

Reflection

This law reminds us that no one is mere property. Every person bears God’s image and deserves protection. It also shows that God’s justice is not cold; it restores the injured and holds the wrongdoer responsible. As followers of God, we can examine our own treatment of others. Do we use our power to build up or to harm? The gospel calls us to go beyond legal duty and serve others with love, just as Christ served us.