Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, the concept of protection for servants is deeply rooted in the laws and teachings of the Old and New Testaments. Servants, often referred to as slaves or bondservants in ancient times, were considered an integral part of the household and society. The Bible provides various guidelines and principles to ensure their fair treatment and protection.
Old TestamentThe Old Testament lays a foundation for the protection of servants through the Mosaic Law. In
Exodus 21:20-21 , the law stipulates, "If a man strikes his male or female servant with a rod and the servant dies by his hand, he shall surely be punished. However, if the servant gets up after a day or two, the owner shall not be punished, since the servant is his property." This passage indicates a level of accountability for the treatment of servants, emphasizing that their lives are valued.
Furthermore, the Year of Jubilee, as described in
Leviticus 25:10 , provided a mechanism for the liberation of servants: "You are to consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty in the land for all its inhabitants. It shall be a Jubilee for you when each of you is to return to his property and to his clan." This ensured that servitude was not a perpetual state and that servants had the opportunity for freedom and restoration.
Deuteronomy 15:12-15 also outlines the release of Hebrew servants after six years of service: "If a fellow Hebrew, a man or woman, sells himself to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you must set him free. And when you release him, do not send him away empty-handed. You are to furnish him liberally from your flock, your threshing floor, and your winepress. You shall give to him as the LORD your God has blessed you."
New TestamentIn the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles further emphasize the dignity and protection of servants.
Ephesians 6:5-9 instructs, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him." This passage calls for mutual respect and fair treatment, recognizing the shared humanity of both servants and masters.
The epistle to Philemon provides a personal example of protection and advocacy for a servant. Paul writes to Philemon regarding Onesimus, a runaway slave, urging Philemon to receive him "no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother" (
Philemon 1:16). This appeal highlights the transformative power of Christian love and fellowship, transcending social and economic boundaries.
Principles of Justice and CompassionThroughout Scripture, the protection of servants is undergirded by broader principles of justice and compassion.
Proverbs 31:8-9 exhorts, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." This call to advocacy extends to all vulnerable groups, including servants.
The biblical mandate for protection and fair treatment of servants reflects God's concern for justice and mercy. It challenges believers to uphold these values in their relationships and societal structures, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their status, are treated with dignity and respect.
