Exodus 23:5 - Printer Friendly

ESV: If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying down under its burden, you shall refrain from leaving him with it; you shall rescue it with him.

NIV: If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help them with it.

NASB: If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying helpless under its load, you shall not leave it helpless for its owner; you must arrange the load with him.

CSB: "If you see the donkey of someone who hates you lying helpless under its load, and you want to refrain from helping it, you must help with it.

NLT: If you see that the donkey of someone who hates you has collapsed under its load, do not walk by. Instead, stop and help.

KJV: If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.

NKJV: If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying under its burden, and you would refrain from helping it, you shall surely help him with it.

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 6/17/2025 6:08:16 AM