“Now these are the judgments which thou shalt set before them.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and continues the narrative of the Israelites’ journey out of Egypt, their encounter with God at Mount Sinai, and the establishment of the covenant between God and His people. In chapter 21, God begins to give the Israelites a series of laws and regulations, commonly referred to as the “Book of the Covenant” or “The Law.”
Explanation and Analysis:
- The Setting:The verse begins by referring to “the judgments.” These judgments are not arbitrary decisions but rather divine laws that were given by God to guide the Israelites in their conduct and relationships with one another. They form the basis of the civil and moral code for the nation of Israel.
- Divine Revelation:The phrase “which thou shalt set before them” indicates that Moses, as the leader and mediator between God and the people, was responsible for presenting these laws to the Israelites. It was Moses’ duty to communicate God’s judgments to the people, ensuring they understood and obeyed them.
- Importance of Divine Laws:The phrase “set before them” implies that these laws were to be prominently displayed or proclaimed to the people. God wanted the Israelites to have a clear understanding of His expectations and the standards of behavior He required from them. By following these laws, the Israelites would establish a just and orderly society.
- Application and Implications:Exodus 21:1 highlights the significance of God’s laws in guiding His people’s lives. It emphasizes the importance of justice and righteousness in the community, where everyone is accountable to God’s standards. The judgments given by God in the subsequent verses (Exodus 21:2-23:33) cover various aspects of social, civil, and moral life, including personal injuries, property rights, slaves, and social responsibilities.
- Continued Relevance:While these specific laws were given to the ancient Israelites, they serve as examples of God’s desire for justice and fairness. Although the specific regulations may not be directly applicable today, the principles behind them, such as the value of human life, fair treatment, and responsibility toward one another, continue to inform our understanding of ethical behavior and justice in society.
Key Takeaway:
Exodus 21:1 marks the beginning of a section in which God provides the Israelites with His judgments and laws. It underscores the importance of God’s guidance and the responsibility of leaders to communicate His standards to the people. The subsequent laws address various aspects of life, promoting fairness, justice, and social responsibility within the community. Although the specific regulations may not apply directly today, the principles behind them continue to inform our understanding of ethical conduct and justice in society.
