For the source text click/tap here: Kiddushin 21
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Our Gemara focuses on the eved ivri who chooses to remain with his master. Will he remain with the master’s son after the master’s death? How long is “forever”? How must the technical application of the law that requires the eved ivri to have his ear pierced be applied? Must it be done with an awl?
Based on a close reading of the pesukim, the Gemara concludes that the eved nirtza – the slave who has had his ear pierced – is only obligated to work for the master, and not his son.
We examine the source critical material distinguishing the Eved Ivri laws in Exodus vs Deuteronomy and the Halacha regarding ear and body piercings.