Exodus 21:5
Amharic Bible (መጽሐፍ ቅዱስ (የብሉይና የሐዲስ ኪዳን መጻሕፍት))
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Exodus 21:5 talks about a situation where a servant, who is legally required to be freed after a certain period, expresses a desire to stay with his master, his wife, and his children. The servant clearly states that he loves his family and does not want to leave them, even though he has the option to go free. This shows the servant's deep commitment and affection for his family.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a pet fish, and you promised to let it go in the ocean when it grows big. But as the fish grows, you realize how much you love taking care of it and how happy it is in your home. You might say, 'I love my fish so much, I don’t want to let it go.' This is like the servant who loves his family so much that he chooses to stay with them even though he can be free.
Historical Background
This verse was written by Moses around 1446 BC, providing legal guidelines for the Israelites. It was meant for a society where servitude was common, and it addressed the rights and responsibilities of both masters and servants. The cultural context included complex family structures and legal systems.
Living It Out Today
In modern times, this can be seen as a metaphor for choosing to stay in a situation because of love and commitment, even when there are easier options. For example, a person might choose to stay in a challenging job to support their family, even when they have other opportunities.