“If the ox shall push a manservant or a maidservant; he shall give unto their master thirty shekels of silver, and the ox shall be stoned.”
This verse is part of a larger passage in the Book of Exodus that outlines various laws and regulations for the Israelites. Exodus 21:32 addresses a specific situation where an ox gores a manservant or maidservant, resulting in injury or death.
In ancient agricultural societies, oxen were commonly used as working animals, especially in farming and transportation. They were powerful and strong but could also be dangerous if not properly controlled. Thus, this verse provides guidelines for cases where an ox causes harm to a servant.
The compensation:The verse states that if an ox pushes or gores a manservant or a maidservant, the owner of the ox is responsible for compensating the injured party. The compensation consists of thirty shekels of silver, which is to be paid to the injured person’s master. Shekels were a unit of currency used in the ancient Near East.
Additionally, the consequence for the ox:the verse states that the ox itself is to be stoned. This is likely a means of addressing the threat posed by the ox and preventing future harm. By putting the ox to death, it ensures the safety of others and serves as a deterrent for other oxen owners to take proper precautions and responsibility for their animals.
The social context:This passage reflects the legal and social context of the ancient Israelites, where servants were considered the property of their masters. The laws aim to establish order, provide restitution for harm done, and maintain a sense of justice within the society.
It’s important to note that the Bible should be read and understood:within its historical and cultural context. The laws outlined in the Book of Exodus were specific to the Israelites during that time and may not directly apply in the same way to modern societies. However, we can still glean valuable lessons from these passages, such as the importance of responsibility, accountability, and ensuring the safety of others.
