Exodus 21 (KJV)
Read Exodus chapter 21 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible.
Exodus 21
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Exodus 21 Summary
Exodus 21 begins the 'Book of the Covenant' — the detailed laws God gives Moses after the Ten Commandments. This chapter addresses the rights of servants, laws about personal injury, penalties for violence, and protections for the vulnerable.
Though some of these laws feel foreign to modern readers, they were revolutionary in the ancient world, establishing that human life has value and that justice must be proportional. The famous 'eye for eye, tooth for tooth' principle limited excessive revenge.
Key Themes
JusticeProtection of the VulnerableProportional PunishmentHuman DignityCovenant Law
Key Verses in Exodus 21
"If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free."
— Exodus 21:2
Limits on servitude protected human freedom.
"Eye for eye, tooth for tooth."
— Exodus 21:24
Established proportional justice, preventing excessive retaliation.
Life Application
Exodus 21 reveals God's deep concern for justice and human dignity. In your dealings with others — at work, at home, in community — pursue fairness and protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'eye for eye' law in Exodus 21?
The 'eye for eye' principle (lex talionis) ensured that punishment was proportional to the offense, preventing excessive vengeance. It was a law of restraint, not cruelty.
What is Exodus 21 about?
Exodus 21 contains civil laws God gave Israel covering servants' rights, personal injuries, and penalties for violence as part of the Covenant Code.
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