Servants

In biblical times, the concept of servanthood was deeply embedded in the social and economic structures of ancient Israel and the surrounding cultures. Servants, often referred to as "slaves" in some translations, played a significant role in the household and agricultural life of the people.

The Hebrew term for servant, "ebed," can denote a range of servitude, from bondservants to hired workers. The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations concerning the treatment of servants, emphasizing humane and just treatment. For instance, Exodus 21:2-6 outlines the conditions under which a Hebrew servant might serve and be released: "If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free, without paying anything" .

The New Testament also addresses the relationship between masters and servants. In Ephesians 6:5-9, Paul instructs servants to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would obey Christ. Conversely, masters are reminded to treat their servants well, knowing that they too have a Master in heaven: "And masters, do the same for them. Give up your use of threats, because you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him" (Ephesians 6:9).

The Bible also presents servanthood as a metaphor for spiritual truths. Jesus Christ is depicted as the ultimate servant, who came not to be served but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Believers are called to emulate Christ's example of servanthood, serving one another in love (Galatians 5:13).

Livestock

Livestock were integral to the agrarian lifestyle of biblical times, serving as a source of wealth, labor, and sustenance. The Bible frequently mentions various types of livestock, including sheep, goats, cattle, camels, and donkeys, each with its own significance and use.

Sheep and goats were particularly important for their wool, milk, and meat. They also held religious significance, as they were commonly used in sacrificial offerings. The Passover lamb, for instance, is a central element in the commemoration of Israel's deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12:3-11).

Cattle were valuable for their milk, meat, and as beasts of burden. They were also used in plowing fields, as seen in the account of Elisha, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen when Elijah called him to be a prophet (1 Kings 19:19).

The Bible provides guidelines for the ethical treatment of livestock. Proverbs 12:10 states, "A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty" . The Sabbath laws also extended to animals, granting them rest on the seventh day (Exodus 20:10).

Livestock imagery is often used metaphorically in Scripture. Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). Believers are likened to sheep, dependent on the care and guidance of their Shepherd.

In summary, both servants and livestock are depicted in the Bible as integral components of ancient life, with spiritual lessons drawn from their roles and treatment. The biblical narrative emphasizes justice, compassion, and stewardship in the management of both servants and animals, reflecting broader theological themes of service, sacrifice, and divine care.