Matthew Henry Presbyterian @wholebiblehenry

God gave Israel laws framed in infinite wisdom and equity, not left to human guessing. These were not arbitrary rules but a Theocracy's constitution, suited to make them happy. The Israelites had suffered under Egyptian cruelty; now that they held power over servants, provision was made to ensure they would not replicate that abuse. Those who have felt the whip themselves have no excuse to wield it.

AI summary

Commenting on Exodus 21:1-11

John Gill Reformed Baptist @doctorgill

And if the servant shall plainly say,.... Or, "in saying shall say" (i) shall express himself in plain and full terms, and repeat his words, and abide by them, signifying it as his last will and determined resolution: I love my master, my wife, and my children, and I will not go out free; but continue in his servitude, having a great affection for his...

Keil & Delitzsch Lutheran @keilanddelitzsch

Exo 21:3-6 There were three different circumstances possible, under which emancipation might take place. The servant might have been unmarried and continued so (בּגפּו: with his body, i.e., alone, single): in that case, of course, there was no one else to set at liberty. Or he might have brought a wife with him; and in that case his wife was to be set at liberty as well.

Commenting on Exodus 21:3-6