Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "man-servant" referred to male servants or slaves who were employed in various capacities within a household or estate. The concept of servitude is woven throughout the biblical narrative, reflecting the social and economic structures of ancient Near Eastern cultures. The role and treatment of man-servants are addressed in several passages of Scripture, providing insight into the expectations and responsibilities of both servants and their masters.Old Testament Context The Hebrew word often translated as "man-servant" is "ebed," which can mean servant, slave, or bondman. In the Old Testament, man-servants were typically part of a household's labor force, performing tasks ranging from agricultural work to domestic duties. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, had numerous servants, as seen in Genesis 14:14, where Abraham mobilizes 318 trained men born in his household to rescue Lot. The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations regarding the treatment of servants. Exodus 21:2-6 outlines the conditions under which a Hebrew man-servant could be released after six years of service, unless he chose to remain with his master permanently. This passage highlights the balance between servitude and personal freedom, emphasizing humane treatment and the possibility of voluntary lifelong service. Leviticus 25:39-43 further instructs the Israelites not to treat their fellow countrymen harshly if they become servants due to poverty, underscoring the principle of compassion and brotherhood. Foreign man-servants, however, could be held as permanent property, as indicated in Leviticus 25:44-46, reflecting the cultural distinctions between Israelites and foreigners. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek term "doulos" is commonly used for servants or slaves. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles address the relationship between servants and masters, often using it as a metaphor for spiritual truths. For instance, in Matthew 20:26-28, Jesus teaches that greatness in His kingdom is marked by servanthood, using His own life as the ultimate example of service. The Apostle Paul provides instructions for Christian households regarding the treatment of servants. In Ephesians 6:5-9, Paul exhorts servants to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would obey Christ. Masters, in turn, are reminded to treat their servants with fairness and without threats, recognizing that both master and servant have the same Master in heaven. The epistle to Philemon offers a personal glimpse into the early Christian approach to servitude. Paul appeals to Philemon to receive his runaway servant, Onesimus, not merely as a servant but as a beloved brother in Christ (Philemon 1:15-16). This appeal reflects the transformative power of the gospel to redefine social relationships within the Christian community. Theological Implications The biblical treatment of man-servants reveals a tension between the cultural norms of ancient societies and the ethical demands of God's covenant people. While the institution of servitude was an accepted part of the ancient world, the Scriptures consistently call for justice, mercy, and the recognition of the inherent dignity of all individuals, created in the image of God. The role of man-servants in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the call to servanthood that is central to the Christian faith. Jesus Christ, the ultimate Servant, exemplifies the humility and self-giving love that believers are called to emulate in their relationships with others, regardless of social status. Library Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. Judging, Therefore, that it Stood Thus with this Matter... Thou Shalt Sanctify the Holy Day. [Remember the Sabbath Day to ... Thou Shalt not Covet Thy Neighbor's House. Thou Shalt not Covet ... Agree with Thine Adversary Soul Winning Stories Told by the Lake. The Ten Commandments of God. The Treasure Hid in the Scriptures is Christ; the True Exposition ... 'That which was Lost' Thesaurus Manservants (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Manservants (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 7:67 Beside their manservants and their maidservants, of whom there ... /m/manservants.htm - 6k Man-servants (1 Occurrence) Man-servant (18 Occurrences) Manservant's (1 Occurrence) Maids (28 Occurrences) Maidservants (28 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Ten Minas? | GotQuestions.orgWho was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Peniel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Man-servants (1 Occurrence)Nehemiah 7:67 Subtopics Related Terms |
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