Exodus 21:31 - Printer Friendly

ESV: If it gores a man 's son or daughter, he shall be dealt with according to this same rule.

NIV: This law also applies if the bull gores a son or daughter.

NASB: Whether it gores a son or a daughter, it shall be done to him according to the same rule.

CSB: If it gores a son or a daughter, he is to be dealt with according to this same law.

NLT: The same regulation applies if the ox gores a boy or a girl.

KJV: Whether he have gored a son, or have gored a daughter, according to this judgment shall it be done unto him.

NKJV: Whether it has gored a son or gored a daughter, according to this judgment it shall be done to him.

Exodus 21:28–36 provides legal protections regarding livestock. Manslaying animals are to be killed (Genesis 9:5–6). Israelites are also responsible for any harm done by their animals. In cases of extreme negligence, this can result in execution. Restitution is required if someone negligently harms another person's animal.

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 6/15/2025 9:42:44 AM