עבד כנעני

The concept of עבד כנעני was mentioned in this week's Parsha. This refers to a non-Jew who takes upon himself the status of Canaanite slave with the knowledge that he becomes the permanent property of his Jewish master.

It is also required that he accept all of the Mitzvot that a woman observes. He goes through a one year trial period. After it is clear that he understands what is expected of him and he convinces all around him that he will diligently keep the commandments, he is accepted. He undergoes circumcision and Mikve.

In the event he is freed, either because of an injury sustained, or his master frees him for a Mitzva, he becomes a complete Jew with his freedom.

The עבד כנעני is viewed as one who desires to observe Mitzvot. For this reason, he goes free immediately if his master takes him out of Israel and prevents him from observing the laws that can only be observed in Eretz Yisrael.

Yesterday was 40 with ספירת העומר