What principles of justice are highlighted in Exodus 21:28 for modern believers? The Verse in Focus “If an ox gores a man or a woman to death, the ox must be stoned, and its meat must not be eaten. But the owner of the ox is innocent.” (Exodus 21:28) Key Observations • An explicit case law—simple, concrete, and practical. • Human life (“man or woman”) is central; gender or status do not alter the value of life. • The offending animal is destroyed, its meat forbidden, underscoring that the community must not profit from bloodshed. • The owner’s innocence is stated when prior negligence cannot be proven (vv. 29–32 add that scenario). Principles of Justice Then and Now • Human life is sacred – Genesis 9:6; Psalm 8:5; Matthew 12:12 all reinforce the unique worth of people. • Equality before the law – “man or woman” eliminates partiality (James 2:1). • Accountability matched to knowledge and intent – No evidence of prior danger means no guilt (contrast v. 29). Modern parallel: liability hinges on negligence, not mere ownership. • Proportionality in penalties – The ox dies, not the innocent owner. Justice is measured, not vengeful. • Removal of ongoing danger – Publicly stoning the ox protects the community and deters future neglect (Romans 13:3–4). • Community purity over personal gain – Meat left uneaten shows justice cannot be monetized (Numbers 35:33). Practical Takeaways for Today • Safeguard others from foreseeable harm—maintain vehicles, tools, pets, workplaces (Deuteronomy 22:8: build a parapet). • Support laws that balance personal freedom with responsibility for public safety. • Accept consequences when our property or actions injure others; confess, make restitution (Luke 19:8). • Champion equal justice—no favoritism for gender, status, or influence. • Remember that justice’s goal is restoration and protection, never revenge. Supporting Scriptural Threads • Proverbs 24:11–12—rescue those in danger; we are accountable. • Micah 6:8—“act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.” • Matthew 22:39—love your neighbor requires practical care. • Romans 12:17—“do not repay anyone evil for evil,” yet ensure “what is right.” |
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