Deu 15:16 | MHM | STEP | vv. 16-17 : If a servant chooses to stay with the master instead of going free—perhaps because they feel cared for—the servant’s ear is to be pierced as a sign they will serve for life ( v. 16, 17; Exod. 21:6 ). Maidservants did not have their ears pierced, but they received a gift if they chose freedom.

‏ Deuteronomy 15:16

vv. 16-17: If a servant chooses to stay with the master instead of going free—perhaps because they feel cared for—the servant’s ear is to be pierced as a sign they will serve for life (v. 16, 17; Exod. 21:6 ^a). Maidservants did not have their ears pierced, but they received a gift if they chose freedom.