Exodus 23:4 - Printer Friendly

ESV: "If you meet your enemy 's ox or his donkey going astray, you shall bring it back to him.

NIV: "If you come across your enemy’s ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to return it.

NASB: If you encounter your enemy’s ox or his donkey wandering away, you must return it to him.

CSB: "If you come across your enemy’s stray ox or donkey, you must return it to him.

NLT: If you come upon your enemy’s ox or donkey that has strayed away, take it back to its owner.

KJV: If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.

NKJV: “If you meet your enemy’s ox or his donkey going astray, you shall surely bring it back to him again.

Exodus 23:1–9 requires impartial judgment under Israelite law. God's people are not to accept bribes or spread lies. They are not to follow popular opinion when that view is unjust. Neither being rich nor being poor should be an advantage in matters of judgment. Israelites must be fair and honest, even when dealing with their adversaries. Judgments should not be used to intimidate or punish foreigners and travelers.

These laws mandate fair judgment, with no bias given for or against the rich, the poor, or foreign travelers. God commands Israel not to follow popular sentiment when it is unjust. Other rules require letting fields grow wild every seven years for the benefit of the land, the poor, and wild animals. The Lord then warns Israel about obedience. If they follow His will, an angel will guide them as they conquer the entire Promised Land (Genesis 15:18–21; Deuteronomy 11:24).

After receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3–17), Israel learns other laws from the Lord. Chapters 21 and 22 covered topics such as servants' rights, homicide, negligence, theft, and social justice. This chapter mandates certain yearly festivals and forbids bias in judgments. It also instructs Israel regarding their upcoming conquest of the Promised Land. Chapter 24 describes a ritual confirmation of the Mosaic covenant. Most chapters after that involve details 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 5:25:11 PM