In biblical times, maidservants were female servants who played significant roles within households, often serving their masters and mistresses in various capacities. The term "maidservant" is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures, reflecting the social and economic structures of ancient Near Eastern cultures.

Old Testament References

Maidservants are first mentioned in the context of the patriarchal narratives. In Genesis 16:1, we encounter Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarai (later Sarah), Abram's wife. Sarai, being barren, gives Hagar to Abram as a wife to bear a child on her behalf. This practice, though foreign to modern sensibilities, was culturally accepted at the time. The narrative of Hagar highlights the complex relationships and social dynamics involving maidservants, as seen in Genesis 16:4-6 : "When she knew she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress. Then Sarai said to Abram, 'May the wrong done to me be upon you. I put my servant in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me.'"

Another notable mention is in the account of Rachel and Leah, the wives of Jacob. Both sisters gave their maidservants, Bilhah and Zilpah, to Jacob as wives to bear children on their behalf (Genesis 30:3-10). This further illustrates the role of maidservants in the family dynamics and lineage of the patriarchs.

The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations concerning maidservants. Exodus 21:7-11 outlines the rights of a Hebrew maidservant, emphasizing her protection and fair treatment. If a man sells his daughter as a maidservant, she is not to be treated as a male servant. If she does not please her master, he must allow her to be redeemed, and he cannot sell her to foreigners. These laws reflect a concern for the dignity and rights of maidservants within the covenant community.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, maidservants are mentioned less frequently but still hold significance. In Luke 1:38 , Mary, the mother of Jesus, refers to herself as "the Lord's servant" (Greek: doulē), expressing her humility and submission to God's will: "I am the Lord’s servant," Mary answered. "May it happen to me according to your word." This self-identification as a servant underscores the virtue of servanthood in the Christian faith.

The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 also alludes to maidservants, as the virgins can be seen as attendants or servants waiting for the bridegroom. This parable emphasizes readiness and faithfulness, qualities expected of servants in the kingdom of God.

Cultural and Theological Significance

Maidservants in the Bible often symbolize humility, service, and obedience. Their accounts reveal the complexities of human relationships and the social hierarchies of ancient times. The biblical narrative acknowledges their presence and contributions, while also highlighting the need for justice and compassion in their treatment.

From a theological perspective, the role of maidservants can be seen as a metaphor for the believer's relationship with God. Just as maidservants served their earthly masters, Christians are called to serve God with humility and faithfulness. The example of Mary, the mother of Jesus, epitomizes this ideal, as she willingly submits to God's plan with the heart of a servant.

In summary, maidservants in the Bible are integral to understanding the social fabric of biblical times and offer valuable insights into themes of service, obedience, and divine providence. Their accounts, woven throughout the Scriptures, continue to inspire and instruct believers in their walk with God.

The Sleeping Apostle
... palace"no safe place, and bad company for him by the coal fire"and then his courage
oozing out at his fingers' ends as soon as a maidservant's sharp tongue ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture d/the sleeping apostle.htm

The Immaculate Conception
... downwards. Anna had also come to the Temple with her maidservant, who was
carrying the doves for sacrifice in wicker baskets. She ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ii the immaculate conception.htm

Maidservant's (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Maidservant's (1 Occurrence). Exodus 21:27 And
if he smite out his manservant's tooth, or his maidservant's...
/m/maidservant's.htm - 6k

Maid-servants (25 Occurrences)
Maid-servants. Maidservants, Maid-servants. Maidservant's . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (YLT). Maidservants, Maid-servants. Maidservant's . Reference Bible
/m/maid-servants.htm - 14k

Manservant's (1 Occurrence)
... Manservant's (1 Occurrence). Exodus 21:27 And if he smite out his manservant's tooth,
or his maidservant's tooth; he shall let him go free for his tooth's sake. ...
/m/manservant's.htm - 6k

Manservant (14 Occurrences)
... man'sur-vant (`ebhedh): A male slave; usually coupled with maidservant or female
slave (Genesis 12:16 Exodus 20:10 1 Samuel 8:16 Job 31:13 Luke 12:45). ...
/m/manservant.htm - 12k

Maid-servant's (2 Occurrences)
Maid-servant's. Maidservant's, Maid-servant's. Mail . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(ASV WBS). Maidservant's, Maid-servant's. Mail . Reference Bible.
/m/maid-servant's.htm - 6k

Smite (230 Occurrences)
... (KJV JPS ASV WBS YLT). Exodus 21:27 And if he smite out his manservant's tooth,
or his maidservant's tooth; he shall let him go free for his tooth's sake. ...
/s/smite.htm - 39k

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