Exodus 21:6

then his master is to bring him before the judges. And he shall take him to the door or doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he shall serve his master for life.

Study Bible

then his master shall bring him to God
In the Hebrew text, the word for "God" here is "Elohim," which can also refer to judges or authorities acting under God's law. This phrase indicates a formal, legal process, emphasizing that the decision for a servant to remain with his master is not taken lightly but is done in the presence of divine or judicial authority. This reflects the seriousness of the covenant being made, underscoring the belief that all human agreements are ultimately accountable to God.

and he shall take him to the door or doorpost
The door or doorpost symbolizes a threshold or boundary, marking a transition from one state of life to another. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the doorpost was often a place of legal transactions and covenants. This act signifies the servant's transition from temporary service to a lifelong commitment, highlighting the solemnity and permanence of the decision.

and pierce his ear with an awl
The act of piercing the ear is rich in symbolism. In Hebrew culture, the ear represents obedience and listening. By piercing the ear, the servant is publicly declaring his willingness to listen to and obey his master for life. The use of an awl, a tool for making permanent marks, further emphasizes the enduring nature of this commitment. This act is a physical manifestation of the servant's voluntary choice to remain in service, reflecting a deeper spiritual truth about the nature of willing servitude.

Then he will be his servant for life
This phrase underscores the lifelong commitment being made. In a conservative Christian perspective, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the believer's relationship with Christ. Just as the servant willingly chooses to serve his master for life, Christians are called to willingly serve Christ, recognizing Him as their eternal Master. This lifelong service is not seen as burdensome but as a joyful commitment, reflecting the love and devotion that characterize a true relationship with God. The permanence of this decision highlights the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people, reminding believers of the eternal security found in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Master
The individual who owns the servant and is responsible for bringing him to God and performing the ear-piercing ritual.

2. The Servant
A Hebrew servant who, after serving six years, chooses to remain with his master permanently.

3. God
The divine authority before whom the servant's decision is affirmed.

4. The Door or Doorpost
The physical location where the servant's ear is pierced, symbolizing his permanent commitment.

5. The Awl
A tool used to pierce the servant's ear, marking his lifelong service.

Teaching Points

Voluntary Servitude as a Model of Commitment
The servant's choice to remain with his master is a powerful example of voluntary commitment and loyalty. In our spiritual lives, we are called to willingly commit ourselves to God, serving Him out of love rather than obligation.

Symbolism of the Doorpost
The doorpost, where the servant's ear is pierced, is significant. It represents a threshold or transition point. In our faith journey, we often encounter moments where we must make a definitive choice to follow God wholeheartedly.

The Role of Rituals in Faith
The act of piercing the ear is a ritual that signifies a deeper spiritual truth. Similarly, Christian practices like baptism and communion are outward expressions of inward commitments.

Eternal Service to God
Just as the servant commits to lifelong service, Christians are called to serve God eternally. This service is not burdensome but a joyful response to God's love and grace.

The Importance of Witnesses
The presence of God as a witness to the servant's decision underscores the importance of accountability in our spiritual commitments. In the Christian community, we support and hold each other accountable in our walk with Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the servant's decision to stay with his master teach us about our relationship with God?

2. How can the symbolism of the doorpost in Exodus 21:6 be applied to moments of decision in our own lives?

3. In what ways do Christian rituals today serve as reminders of our commitments to God, similar to the ear-piercing ritual?

4. How does the concept of voluntary servitude in Exodus 21:6 relate to Jesus' teachings on servanthood in the New Testament?

5. What role does community play in affirming and supporting our spiritual commitments, as seen in the presence of God as a witness in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 15:16-17
This passage reiterates the law concerning a servant who chooses to stay with his master, emphasizing the servant's love for his master and household.

Psalm 40:6
This verse speaks of ears being opened, which can be seen as a metaphor for obedience and willingness to serve God.

John 13:16
Jesus speaks about the relationship between a servant and master, highlighting humility and service.

Philippians 2:7
Paul describes Jesus taking the form of a servant, which parallels the servant's willing submission in Exodus 21:6.