What is the meaning of Exodus 22:10? If a man gives a donkey, an ox, a sheep, or any other animal • Scripture recognizes real, tangible property. Each creature—large like an ox, small like a sheep—is valuable because “the earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1). • The verse begins with a voluntary act of trust. One person places what belongs to him into another’s hands. Compare Leviticus 25:35, where Israel is told to support a needy brother, and Proverbs 3:27, “Do not withhold good from the one to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act”. • The list “donkey, ox, sheep” covers work animals and flock animals, then widens to “any other animal,” showing the principle applies broadly. Exodus 21:33-34 offers a similar all-inclusive approach when dealing with an injured ox. to be cared for by his neighbor • A neighbor receives the animal not as owner but as custodian. This is a trust, echoed in Deuteronomy 22:1-3, where found property must be kept safe until returned. • The responsibility is protective, not merely passive. Genesis 30:31-33 shows Jacob actively shepherding Laban’s flock; faithful care includes effort and vigilance. • Jesus uses the shepherd image in John 10:3-4 to highlight personal, attentive oversight—an everyday picture of covenant faithfulness. but it dies or is injured or stolen • Three outcomes summarize common losses: – Death (natural or accidental) – Injury (partial loss of value) – Theft (total loss through wrongdoing) • Exodus 22:12 will specify that if an animal is stolen and the neighbor can prove it, he is not liable. The law distinguishes unavoidable events from negligence. • Leviticus 24:18 mandates restitution when a life is taken, revealing God’s concern for equity. In John 10:12-13 Jesus contrasts the hired hand who flees with the good shepherd who stays, underscoring accountability when harm threatens. while no one is watching • No human witness sees the incident, yet God witnesses all. Job 34:21 reminds, “For His eyes are on the ways of a man, and He sees his every step”. • Lack of eyewitnesses does not cancel responsibility; it necessitates honest testimony and, if needed, oath-taking (see the very next verse, Exodus 22:11). • David protected his father’s flock from lions and bears when no one observed (1 Samuel 17:34-35). Faithfulness is proven in unseen moments. summary Exodus 22:10 commands integrity in everyday agreements. When one neighbor entrusts his animals to another, God expects diligent care, truthful reporting, and respect for property even when loss occurs out of sight. The verse teaches that stewardship, accountability, and neighbor-love are not optional extras—they are covenant duties lived out before the ever-watchful Lord. |
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