Exodus 21:6
Cebuano CBV - Unknown
Nan pagadad-on siya sa iyang agalon ngadto sa Dios, ug pagadad-on siya ngadto sa pultahan kun ngadto sa haligi sa pultahan; ug ang iyang agalon magapalungag sa iyang dalunggan sa hilihod, ug siya maiyang alagad nga sa walay katapusan.
What Does This Mean?
This verse talks about a slave who chooses to stay with his master forever instead of being freed. The master then has to pierce the slave's ear as a sign of his lifelong commitment. It's a legal provision from the Old Testament.
Explained for Children
Imagine you really like helping your friend and want to keep helping them forever. In ancient times, if a person wanted to stay with their friend forever, they would get a small hole in their ear to show they made this choice forever. It's like a special promise ring, but for their ear!
Historical Background
Exodus was written by Moses around 1440 BC, detailing laws and regulations for the Israelites. This specific verse outlines a legal practice regarding a slave's choice to remain with his master. The practice was common in the ancient Near East.
Living It Out Today
In modern terms, this could be seen as a metaphor for loyalty and commitment in relationships or work. For example, if someone stays with a company for their entire career, they show a commitment similar to the slave's in this verse.
Topics
lawsslaverycommitmentcovenantancient practicesfreedom
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ear piercing symbolize in Exodus 21:6?
The ear piercing symbolizes a permanent commitment to the master. It marks the slave as someone who has chosen to serve forever, making the ear a visible sign of this lifelong dedication.
How does this verse reflect ancient Near Eastern practices?
Ear piercing for slaves who chose to remain with their masters was a common practice in the ancient Near East, indicating a legal and cultural norm of the time.
How can this verse be applied to modern situations?
This verse can be applied to modern situations as a metaphor for commitment and loyalty, such as in long-term employment or deep personal relationships where dedication is lifelong.
What does the door post represent in this context?
The door post is a symbolic place where the commitment is made visible and public. It represents the boundary between the household and the outside world, marking the individual's choice to enter into a lifelong commitment with their master.
Compare Exodus 21:6 across all translations →