THEOSISWlastow G.K.
The references in verses 20, 21, 26, 27, and 32 regarding slaves primarily concern foreign servants, as indicated by Rabbinical and Jewish scholars. Hebrew slaves were granted all the rights associated with their heritage, as noted in Leviticus 25:39 which states, “thou shalt not impose upon him the work of a slave; he shall be with thee as a hireling, as a settler." The scripture in verse 20 does not specify the repercussions for a master who caused the death of a slave out of anger; likely, this determination was left to a judge. It is significant that, according to ancient legal standards, there was indeed a penalty for the death of a slave.
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This contrasts sharply with Roman law, where a master could kill a slave without facing any consequences, even if the slave were a natural-born Roman. Verse 21 conveys in a gentler tone the prevailing perspective on slavery in ancient times, indicating that Israel had yet to embrace the fuller truths and commandments that were to come.