In the biblical narrative, the concept of slavery, including the presence of Egyptian slaves, is a significant theme that reflects the socio-economic and cultural dynamics of the ancient Near East. The term "Egyptian slave" can refer to both the Israelites who were enslaved in Egypt and to Egyptian individuals who were enslaved or served in various capacities.

Israelites as Egyptian Slaves

The most prominent reference to Egyptian slavery in the Bible is the enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt. This period is foundational to the narrative of the Exodus, where the Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, are delivered from bondage. The book of Exodus describes the harsh conditions under which the Israelites labored. Exodus 1:13-14 states, "They worked the Israelites ruthlessly and made their lives bitter with hard labor in brick and mortar and with all kinds of work in the fields; in all their hard labor, the Egyptians used them