Exodus 21:5 Meaning and Explanation
“And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A servant may voluntarily choose to remain in servitude if it means staying with his family.
The Context of Exodus 21:5
A servant may choose permanent servitude to remain with his family
What Does Exodus 21:5 Mean?
Love for family can move a person to make a radical choice. If a servant genuinely loves his master and, more importantly, his wife and children who remain the master's property, he may publicly declare his intention to stay rather than accept release.
This verse shows the emotional and relational realities that law must account for. The servant's declaration reveals a heart that prioritizes family bonds over personal freedom, reflecting values that resonate throughout Scripture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 21:5
What does Exodus 21:5 mean?
A servant may voluntarily choose to remain in servitude if it means staying with his family.
What is the context of Exodus 21:5?
A servant may choose permanent servitude to remain with his family