Exodus 21:9

French NEG79 1979 (Segond Nouvelle Edition de Genève 1979)

S'il la destine à son fils, il agira envers elle selon le droit des filles.

What Does This Mean?

This verse explains that if a man betroths a servant girl to his son, she should be treated like one of his daughters. The speaker is not explicitly mentioned, but it's part of the laws given by God to Moses. The key message is about the fair treatment and status of women within family structures.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your mom bought a new doll for you to play with. She tells you to treat the doll like one of your own toys. This verse is like that, but for a family where a girl becomes part of their family, and they should treat her like one of their own daughters.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the Book of Exodus, written by Moses around 1440-1400 BC. It was intended for the Israelites to understand God's laws and how to treat each other, particularly within the context of slavery and family relationships.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse reminds us of the importance of treating new family members, like stepchildren or adopted children, with the same love and respect as biological children. It emphasizes the value of inclusivity and fairness.

Topics

• family
• fairness
• respect
• slavery
• equality
• law

Related Verses

• Leviticus 19:34
• Deuteronomy 21:10-14
• Ephesians 6:9
• Colossians 4:1
• 1 Timothy 5:8

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this verse apply only to ancient times?

While the verse is set in an ancient context, its principles of fairness and respect can still be applied to modern family structures, especially regarding stepchildren and adopted children.

What does 'betrothed' mean in this context?

Betrothed means that the man has promised to marry the girl or to have her married to his son. In ancient times, this was a formal step before the marriage was consummated.

Why is it important to treat her like a daughter?

Treating her like a daughter ensures she is given equal respect and rights within the family, promoting fairness and inclusivity, which are values God emphasizes in His laws.

How does this verse relate to the concept of slavery?

This verse provides guidance on how to treat a servant girl who is betrothed, aiming to ensure her dignity and fair treatment within the household, reflecting broader principles of justice and fairness.