King James Version

What Does Exodus 21:11 Mean?

Exodus 21:11 in the King James Version says “And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money. — study this verse from Exodus chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.

Exodus 21:11 · KJV


Context

9

And if he have betrothed her unto his son, he shall deal with her after the manner of daughters.

10

If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish.

11

And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.

12

He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death.

13

And if a man lie not in wait, but God deliver him into his hand; then I will appoint thee a place whither he shall flee.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.

This judgment (mishpat) from the Book of the Covenant applies moral law to civil society. God's justice is comprehensive—addressing economic disputes, family relations, and community welfare. The case laws teach covenant people how to love God and neighbor practically. Through detailed ordinances, God shapes Israel as holy nation, distinct from pagan neighbors. These laws reveal God's character: just, merciful, concerned with details of everyday life.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:22-23:33) is Israel's foundational legal code, predating later expansions in Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. It addresses civil, criminal, and ceremonial matters.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this law reveal God's character—His justice, mercy, or holiness?
  2. What New Testament principles build upon or fulfill this Old Testament regulation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְאִם1 of 10
H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

שְׁלָ֨שׁ2 of 10

not these three

H7969

three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice

אֵ֔לֶּה3 of 10
H428

these or those

לֹ֥א4 of 10
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יַֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה5 of 10

And if he do

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לָ֑הּ6 of 10
H0
וְיָֽצְאָ֥ה7 of 10

unto her then shall she go out

H3318

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

חִנָּ֖ם8 of 10

free

H2600

gratis, i.e., devoid of cost, reason or advantage

אֵ֥ין9 of 10
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

כָּֽסֶף׃10 of 10

without money

H3701

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 21:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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