Exodus 21:5

And if the seruant shall plainely say, I loue my master, my wife, and my children, I will not goe out free: Exodus 21:5 (KJV)

Exodus 21:5 is part of the laws and regulations given to the Israelites by God through Moses. The verse addresses the situation of a Hebrew servant who, after becoming eligible for release, voluntarily chooses to remain in servitude. During the ancient Near Eastern period, servitude or slavery was a common practice in many societies, including Israel, yet the biblical institution differed from the harsher, more oppressive systems that developed later.

In this passage the servant declares a profound devotion to his master, the master’s wife, and the children, saying, “I will not go out free.” By this statement the servant is electing to stay in the household and continue working willingly. The provision serves as an exception to the general release rule found in Exodus 21:2, which required Hebrew servants to be set free after six years of service, and it also aligns with the broader principle of periodic release found in the Jubilee year outlined in Leviticus 25.

Interpretation of the verse must be rooted in its historical and cultural context. While the Bible acknowledges the existence of servitude, it simultaneously stresses fair treatment and humane practices. Other passages such as Exodus 21:20‑21 and Deuteronomy 15:12‑15 provide additional guidelines to ensure the well‑being and equitable treatment of servants.

Overall, Exodus 21:5 portrays a servant who, out of love and loyalty, chooses to remain in the service of his master even when he has the option of freedom. The text reminds readers of the complexities of biblical social structures and underscores the importance of considering cultural context when interpreting Scripture.