Do not plow
Plowing is a fundamental agricultural activity, essential for preparing the ground for planting crops. In ancient Israel, agriculture was the backbone of society, and the success of crops was crucial for survival. This command highlights the importance of proper agricultural practices, which were often seen as a reflection of one's obedience to God's laws.

with an ox and a donkey
The ox and the donkey are two different types of animals with distinct characteristics. The ox is a clean animal according to Levitical law (Leviticus 11:3), while the donkey is considered unclean (Leviticus 11:4). This distinction between clean and unclean animals is significant in the context of Israelite law and worship, symbolizing the separation between what is holy and what is common.

yoked together
Yoking two different animals together would create an imbalance, as they have different strengths, sizes, and temperaments. This could lead to inefficient plowing and unnecessary strain on the animals. The yoke is also a symbol of partnership and unity, and this law underscores the importance of harmony and equality in partnerships. In a broader sense, it can be seen as a metaphor for relationships and alliances, warning against unequal partnerships that can lead to discord.

This command can be connected to the New Testament teaching in 2 Corinthians 6:14, where believers are advised not to be "unequally yoked" with unbelievers. This principle emphasizes the importance of spiritual compatibility and shared values in relationships.

In a typological sense, the ox can be seen as a type of Christ, who bears the burden of our sins and leads us in righteousness. The donkey, often associated with stubbornness and burden-bearing, contrasts with the purity and strength of the ox. This juxtaposition can serve as a reminder of the need for purity and holiness in our walk with God.

Overall, this command reflects God's concern for order, harmony, and holiness in all aspects of life, from agricultural practices to personal relationships.

• “Do not plow…” (Deuteronomy 22:10) begins with a clear prohibition, reminding Israel that everyday tasks were to be governed by God’s directives, just as Sabbath rest shaped weekly rhythms (Exodus 20:8–10).

• The negative form highlights God’s protection; boundaries guard His people from harm and compromise, echoing Leviticus 19:19 where mixing unlike things is likewise forbidden.

• Obedience in small matters—such as farming practice—confirmed covenant loyalty (Deuteronomy 28:1–2).

• The ox, a clean, strong, patiently working animal (Proverbs 14:4), symbolized faithful labor. God defends its welfare by commanding, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain” (Deuteronomy 25:4, cited in 1 Corinthians 9:9).

• Harnessing the ox correctly protected both animal and field, modeling stewardship over creation (Genesis 1:28).

• The clean status of the ox (Leviticus 11:3) underscores a pattern: purity and order honor the Lord.

• The donkey, though valuable for burden-bearing (Numbers 22:21–22), was ceremonially unclean (Leviticus 11:4). It had to be redeemed or its neck broken at birth (Exodus 13:13), highlighting its different standing.

• Pairing the donkey’s stubborn gait and shorter stride with the ox’s steady pull would chafe, injure, and thwart efficient plowing—an earthly picture of spiritual mismatch.

• The contrast teaches discernment: not everything useful belongs in every task (1 Corinthians 10:23).

• A yoke forces two creatures to share pace, purpose, and direction. When their nature or strength differs, friction results; the field suffers and both animals are hurt.

• This agricultural image prepares hearts for moral application: “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 6:14), where spiritual incompatibility can warp witness and stunt growth.

• The yoke motif also recalls Christ’s invitation: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:29–30), contrasting the strain of mismatched ties with the rest found in Him.

• In Israel’s life, the law guarded holiness and compassion simultaneously—avoiding cruelty to animals (Proverbs 12:10) while illustrating covenant purity.

Deuteronomy 22:10 uses a simple farm rule to teach holy order. By forbidding an ox and a donkey to plow side by side, God protects His creatures, preserves effective labor, and paints a living parable: partnerships must honor His design. Whether tending a field or forging relationships, God’s people thrive when they yoke only what He declares compatible, walking in obedient harmony with His Word.

Parallel Commentaries ...