What principles of justice are highlighted in Exodus 21:27 regarding personal injury? Setting the Verse in Context “And if he knocks out the tooth of his male or female slave, he must set the slave free in compensation for the tooth.” (Exodus 21:27) Key Principles of Justice in View • Personal Accountability – The verse assigns direct responsibility to the one who caused the harm. – Scripture consistently ties wrongdoing to consequences (cf. Galatians 6:7). • Proportionate Restitution – Loss of a tooth is compensated by the servant’s freedom—far more valuable than the tooth. – God’s law guards against both trivializing injury and exacting excessive penalties (cf. Leviticus 24:19-20). • Protection of the Vulnerable – Servants were socially dependent; the law shields them from abuse. – See Deuteronomy 24:14-15, where prompt payment of wages is commanded to prevent oppression. • Recognition of Human Dignity – Even a bond-servant bears God-given worth; bodily harm cannot be ignored. – Job 31:13-15 highlights the Creator’s equal formation of master and servant. • Deterrence Against Abuse – The possibility of losing a valuable worker or asset discouraged mistreatment. – Exodus 21:26-27 forms a unit: striking an eye or tooth results in immediate emancipation. • Restoration over Retaliation – The aim is to restore justice, not perpetuate violence. – Matthew 5:38-39 references “eye for eye” laws, pointing to righteousness fulfilled in Christ. Implications for Today • Employers, leaders, and caregivers remain answerable for harm done to those under their authority (Colossians 4:1; James 5:4). • Legal systems draw on the biblical concept that damages should right the wrong, not simply punish. • Believers are called to value every person’s physical well-being as part of honoring the Creator (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Summing It Up Exodus 21:27 underscores a justice that is accountable, proportionate, protective, dignifying, deterrent, and restorative—principles that flow from God’s own character and remain relevant in every setting where people may be harmed. |
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