Slave of the Messiah

When Torah was given to Israel, a man could become a slave or servant for a variety of reasons. For instance, a man could invest all he had into buying a field and planting a vineyard. But before his grape vines mature and produce grapes, there is a hailstorm, and then locusts and finally, drought. He borrowed money to keep afloat through all the disasters but to no avail. He lost his entire investment of money and time. There were no welfare systems in those days. His only choice was to sell himself for a period of time and take the money to pay off his debts.

At the end of his time of service he could then go free if he wanted. But if on the other hand, he assessed his situation and saw that he had a good master, a roof over his head, plenty to eat, and clothes to wear, he could make the decision to stay with his master forever. He became a permanent slave.