Exodus 21:6
French Bible (BBB) Bible Bovet Bonnet (1900)
alors son maître l'amènera devant Dieu et le fera approcher de la porte ou du poteau, et son maître lui percera l'oreille d'un poinçon, et il le servira à perpétuité.
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
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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.