What responsibility does Exodus 22:6 place on individuals for accidental harm to others' property? The Key Verse “If a fire breaks out and spreads to thornbushes so that stacked grain or standing grain or the whole field is consumed, the one who ignited the fire must make restitution.” (Exodus 22:6) Immediate Implications of Exodus 22:6 • Accidental origin, real responsibility • Damage includes every stage of the crop—“stacked,” “standing,” or the “whole field” • Obligation is clear: “must make restitution” Principle of Personal Liability • Scripture treats negligence as moral fault, even when unintended • The standard is not motive but measurable loss • Ownership of consequences reinforces love of neighbor (Leviticus 19:18) Extent of Restitution Required • Full replacement of what was lost, not a token gesture • Value assessed by the owner’s loss, not the offender’s convenience • No statutory limit mentioned, implying complete restoration Supporting Scriptures • Exodus 22:5—“If a man lets his livestock loose and they graze… he must make restitution.” (parallel principle) • Exodus 21:33-34—liability for an uncovered pit • Numbers 5:6-7—confession plus “full restitution, adding a fifth” for certain violations • Proverbs 6:30-31—thief repays “sevenfold” • Luke 19:8—Zacchaeus’ fourfold repayment exemplifies wholehearted restitution Application for Today • Insurance and civil law cannot replace personal moral duty; believers still honor the heart of the command • Carelessness with fire, machinery, chemicals, data, or finances falls under the same principle • Quick, complete repayment maintains witness, heals relationships, and reflects God’s justice (Micah 6:8) |
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