God’s Code of Conduct – Exodus 21:1–32
When we turn to Exodus 21, we enter into a part of Scripture that often makes us uncomfortable. Here, right after the giving of the Ten Commandments, God begins to lay down detailed laws for Israel’s daily life. These laws cover Hebrew slaves, homicide, and bodily injuries. While the details may seem foreign to us today, they reveal God’s desire to establish a society built on justice, accountability, and compassion.
Regulations Regarding Hebrew Slaves (Exodus 21:1–11)
In the ancient world, slavery was common, but God placed restrictions on it for His people. A Hebrew slave was not to be in bondage permanently. After six years, he was to be released in the seventh year, free and without debt. If a servant loved his master and wished to remain, there was a ceremony to make that decision permanent.
Women who were sold as servants were given special protection so they would not be treated as disposable property. These laws remind us that while slavery existed, God set boundaries to protect dignity. Hebrew slaves were not to be treated with the cruelty of later forms of slavery, especially the transatlantic slave trade. Yet, they were still considered property in a sense, and their freedom was limited. This shows us that God was working within the culture of the time, moving His people toward greater justice.
Regulations Concerning Homicide (Exodus 21:12–14)
God made a clear distinction between intentional murder and accidental killing. If a man struck and killed another intentionally, he was guilty and deserved death. But if it was accidental, God provided mercy through cities of refuge. Here, we see that life is sacred, and the taking of life unjustly carried severe consequences. These laws upheld the value of human life while balancing justice with mercy.
Regulations Concerning Bodily Injuries (Exodus 21:18–32)
The law also addressed personal injury. If someone struck another and caused harm, the one responsible had to compensate for lost time and ensure the victim’s healing. If a master injured a slave severely, that slave was to be set free. Even the death of an ox causing harm to a person was addressed, placing responsibility on the animal’s owner.
All of these laws formed a code of conduct, setting expectations for accountability and fairness. They taught Israel that God cared not just about worship, but also about how they treated one another in daily life.
Christian Reflection: What About Modern Slavery?
Although we no longer live under the Mosaic law, these passages challenge us today. While God tolerated regulated servitude in ancient times, the Bible’s greater story moves toward freedom and dignity for all people. Paul reminds us in Galatians 3:28 that in Christ there is neither slave nor free.
Sadly, slavery still exists in our world today—human trafficking, forced labor, and exploitation of the vulnerable. As Christians, we are called not to ignore it but to act. We can pray, support organizations that rescue and restore victims, and advocate for justice. Our faith is not only about personal salvation but about reflecting God’s heart for the oppressed.
What About Us Today?
Exodus 21 may seem distant, but it points us to a God who cares about justice, fairness, and compassion. He gave Israel a code of conduct to govern their community, reminding them that life and dignity matter. As followers of Christ, we are called to go further—working to bring freedom, dignity, and love to those who suffer under the weight of modern slavery.
Let us be a people who value every human life as God does, and who work to bring His justice and mercy into the world.