Exodus 21:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In the manner in which one arrives, so must one depart; it is essential for each of us to persist in what we have initiated, maintaining the focus we have dedicated until the journey is fully completed. For he who transitions effectively to a life of contemplation is the one who has not allowed his active pursuit to diminish in quality. There are those who eagerly engage in righteous actions prior to joining the sacred community in service to God. Conversely, there are individuals who discover virtuous deeds only after entering the divine service. Thus, anyone who, even before committing to God’s service, sought after it is akin to a Hebrew servant bound to his spouse. Generally, such a person is able to advance towards a contemplative existence without abandoning the active life.

When a husband was made a slave, his wife experienced a similar plight; however, once the husband was liberated, she too attained freedom because she was regarded as belonging to her spouse rather than to his master. Likewise, children born to a free wife during a period of enslavement were recognized as belonging to their father. This principle is drawn from scriptural teachings that address the circumstances of marriages involving enslaved individuals.