Exodus 21:13 - Printer Friendly

ESV: But if he did not lie in wait for him, but God let him fall into his hand, then I will appoint for you a place to which he may flee.

NIV: However, if it is not done intentionally, but God lets it happen, they are to flee to a place I will designate.

NASB: Yet if he did not lie in wait for him, but God caused him to fall into his hand, then I will appoint you a place to which he may flee.

CSB: But if he did not intend any harm, and yet God allowed it to happen, I will appoint a place for you where he may flee.

NLT: But if it was simply an accident permitted by God, I will appoint a place of refuge where the slayer can run for safety.

KJV: And if a man lie not in wait, but God deliver him into his hand; then I will appoint thee a place whither he shall flee.

NKJV: However, if he did not lie in wait, but God delivered him into his hand, then I will appoint for you a place where he may flee.

Exodus 21:12–17 provides penalties for those who violate the sixth commandment (Exodus 20:13). The law later distinguishes (Exodus 21:18–21) between murder and manslaughter. Murder is a serious sin, and under God's covenant with the nation of Israel, it was a serious crime. Most forms of intentional murder were subject to the death penalty. This passage also indicates that kidnapping people into slavery was punishable by death. So was heinous treatment of parents (Exodus 20:12).

The Ten Commandments form the basis of Israel's other laws. In this chapter, God provides guidelines and penalties for various issues. These include homicide, assault, and injury. Laws also control harm done to or by animals. Included in these are protections for pregnant women and unborn children. Servants are guarded from abuse. Kidnapping people into slavery is punishable by death.

Chapter 20 began recording the laws of God's covenant with Israel. This started with the Ten Commandments. In this chapter, the Lord provides rules on subjects such as penalties for violent crime and negligence regarding animals. Chapters 22 and 23 continue to provide details about Israel's legal code. Chapter 24 records a confirmation of the covenant. Chapter 25 begins describing the construction of the tabernacle.

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 6/30/2025 2:16:34 PM