The general object of the laws defining the relations of master and servant, was the good of both parties—­more especially the good of the servants.  While the master’s interests were guarded from injury, those of the servants were promoted.  These laws made a merciful provision for the poorer classes, both of the Israelites and Strangers, not laying on burdens, but lightening them—­they were a grant of privileges and favors.

I. No servant from the Strangers, could remain in the family of an Israelite without becoming a proselyte.  Compliance with this condition was the price of the privilege.—­Gen. xvii. 9-14, 23, 27.

II.  Excommunication from the family was a PUNISHMENT.—­Gen. xxi. 14.  Luke xvi. 2-4.

III.  Every Hebrew servant could COMPEL his master to keep him after the six years contract had expired.  This shows that the system was framed to advance the interests and gratify the wishes of the servant quite as much as those of the master.  If the servant demanded it, the law obliged the master to retain him, however little he might need his services.  Deut. xv. 12-17.  Ex. xxi. 2-6.

IV.  The rights and privileges guarantied by law to all servants.

1. They were admitted into covenant with God. Deut. xxix. 10-13.

2. They were invited guests at all the national and family festivals. Ex. xii. 43-44; Deut. xii. 12, 18, xvi. 10-16.

3. They were statedly instructed in morality and religion. Deut. xxxi. 10-13; Josh. viii. 33-35; 2 Chron. xvii. 8-9.

4. They were released from their regular labor nearly ONE HALF OF THE WHOLE TIME.  During which they had their entire support, and the same instruction that was provided for the other members of the Hebrew community.

(a.) The Law secured to them the whole of every seventh year; Lev. xxv. 3-6; thus giving to those who were servants during the entire period between the jubilees, eight whole years, including the jubilee year, of unbroken rest.

(b.) Every seventh day. This in forty-two years, the eight being subtracted from the fifty, would amount to just six years.

(c.) The three annual festivals. The Passover, which commenced on the 15th of the 1st month, and lasted seven days, Deut. xvi. 3, 8.  The Pentecost, or Feast of Weeks, which began on the 6th day of the 3d month, and lasted seven days.  Lev. xvi. 10, 11.  The Feast of Tabernacles, which commenced on the 15th of the 7th month, and lasted eight days.  Deut. xvi. 13, 15; Lev. xxiii. 34-39.  As all met in one place, much time would be spent on the journey.  Cumbered caravans move slowly.  After their arrival, a day or two would be requisite for divers preparations before the celebration, besides some time at the close of it, in preparations for return.  If we assign three weeks to each festival—­including