Exodus 21:9 is part of a section dealing with the treatment of female Hebrew slaves. To understand what "If he marries her to his son, he shall deal with her as a daughter" means, we need to consider the context:
The Scenario: The verse outlines the situation where a man has acquired a female Hebrew slave (likely as a concubine) but chooses to give her to his son as a wife.
"Deal with her as a daughter": This phrase signifies that the father-in-law (the original owner) is obligated to treat her with the respect and rights afforded to a free daughter of the household, not as a mere slave or piece of property. This would include providing her with:
Provision: Ensuring she has adequate food, clothing, and shelter.
Protection: Defending her interests and ensuring she is not abused.
Respect: Treating her with dignity and consideration.
In summary, Exodus 21:9 dictates that if a man gives his female Hebrew slave to his son in marriage, he must treat her as a member of the family, not as a slave. He must ensure she is provided for, protected, and treated with respect.
It's important to note that the verses in Exodus 21, including this one, reflect the societal norms and legal framework of ancient Israel. They should be interpreted within that historical and cultural context.
Exodus 21:9 is part of a section dealing with the treatment of female Hebrew slaves. To understand what "If he marries her to his son, he shall deal with her as a daughter" means, we need to consider the context:
The Scenario: The verse outlines the situation where a man has acquired a female Hebrew slave (likely as a concubine) but chooses to give her to his son as a wife.
"Deal with her as a daughter": This phrase signifies that the father-in-law (the original owner) is obligated to treat her with the respect and rights afforded to a free daughter of the household, not as a mere slave or piece of property. This would include providing her with:
Provision: Ensuring she has adequate food, clothing, and shelter.
Protection: Defending her interests and ensuring she is not abused.
Respect: Treating her with dignity and consideration.
In summary, Exodus 21:9 dictates that if a man gives his female Hebrew slave to his son in marriage, he must treat her as a member of the family, not as a slave. He must ensure she is provided for, protected, and treated with respect.
It's important to note that the verses in Exodus 21, including this one, reflect the societal norms and legal framework of ancient Israel. They should be interpreted within that historical and cultural context.