
Scripture Central Deuteronomy I How the Law of Moses Protected Women I Handmaidens, Harems and Heroines I Lynne Wilson
May 4, 2026
A deep dive into women’s lives in Deuteronomy, from servants and ear‑piercing rituals to protections for widows and daughters. Theological shifts and Josiah’s reforms are explored alongside laws on intermarriage, child sacrifice bans, and tithes for the vulnerable. Stories like Tamar and memories of Miriam illuminate how covenant ceremonies and social structures shaped women’s roles.
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Laws Differ On Female Servants And Six Year Release
- Exodus and Deuteronomy differ on female indentured servitude and freedom after six years, producing different protections and outcomes for sold daughters.
- Wilson contrasts Exodus 21 (daughter kept if taken as wife but protected as a daughter) with Deuteronomy 15 which allows release after six years.
Multiple Hebrew Words Change Meaning Of Slavery
- Hebrew has multiple distinct words for servitude that matter for legal status and treatment.
- Wilson emphasizes at least five Hebrew terms (female slave, young male slave, hired servant, volunteer servant) that English translations collapse into 'servant' or 'slave'.
Give Freed Servants A Generous Sendoff
- Do release indentured servants with generosity so they can start independently, reflecting Exodus/Deuteronomy commands.
- Wilson reads Deuteronomy 15:13 and 12:13–15 urging masters to supply flock, threshing floor, and winepress when freeing servants.
