“Thou shalt not see thy brother’s ox or his sheep go astray, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt in any case bring them again unto thy brother.”
This verse is part of the Book of Deuteronomy, which is the fifth book of the Old Testament in the Bible. It contains the speeches of Moses to the Israelites just before they enter the Promised Land. Deuteronomy 22:2:addresses the issue of a person’s responsibility when they come across their neighbor’s lost livestock, specifically oxen or sheep. Let’s explore the verse in more detail.
“Thou shalt not see thy brother’s ox or his sheep go astray, and hide thyself from them”: This verse starts by prohibiting the act of intentionally ignoring or neglecting a neighbor’s lost livestock. If someone observes an ox or sheep wandering away from its rightful owner, they are not to ignore the situation or hide from it.
“Thou shalt in any case bring them again unto thy brother”: The verse emphasizes the responsibility to take action. If someone discovers their neighbor’s lost livestock, they are obligated to return the animals to their rightful owner. The term “brother” here refers to a fellow Israelite, emphasizing the communal and caring nature of the instruction.
This verse highlights the importance of showing concern for others and being responsible members of the community. It encourages individuals to actively help their neighbors and ensure that their property is protected. The underlying principle is one of kindness, justice, and the value of preserving the well‑being of the community.
It’s important to note that this verse specifically addresses lost livestock, but its underlying message extends beyond animals. It can be seen as a broader principle of looking out for the well‑being of others and not turning a blind eye when someone is in need.
In summary, Deuteronomy 22:2:instructs individuals not to ignore their neighbor’s lost ox or sheep but to actively seek to return them. This verse promotes a sense of responsibility, care for others, and the importance of communal well‑being.
