Definition and Context:
Goring refers to the act of an animal, typically an ox, using its horns to injure or kill a person or another animal. In biblical times, oxen were commonly used for plowing fields and other agricultural tasks, making the issue of goring a significant concern for those living in agrarian societies. The Bible addresses the legal and moral implications of goring, particularly in the context of property and personal responsibility.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 21:28-32: The Law of Moses provides specific instructions regarding the consequences of an ox goring a person. According to Exodus 21:28-29 , "If an ox gores a man or a woman to death, the ox must surely be stoned, and its meat may not be eaten. But the owner of the ox will be acquitted. However, if the ox was known to gore in the past and its owner has been warned yet does not restrain it, and it kills a man or a woman, then the ox must be stoned and its owner must also be put to death." This passage highlights the principle of accountability, emphasizing that the owner bears responsibility if prior knowledge of the animal's dangerous behavior exists.

2. Exodus 21:35-36: The law also addresses situations where an ox gores another ox. "If one man’s ox injures another’s ox and it dies, they must sell the live one and divide the proceeds; they must also divide the dead animal. But if it was known that the ox had a habit of goring, yet its owner did not restrain it, he must pay full compensation—ox for ox—and the dead animal will be his." This regulation underscores the importance of fairness and restitution in cases of property damage.

Theological Implications:

The laws concerning goring reflect broader biblical themes of justice, responsibility, and community welfare. The stipulations ensure that individuals are held accountable for their property and its potential to cause harm. This accountability extends to the protection of human life, which is of paramount importance in biblical teaching. The severe penalty for an owner who neglects to restrain a known dangerous animal underscores the value placed on human life and the moral duty to prevent harm.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Israel, oxen were valuable assets, essential for agriculture and transportation. The laws regarding goring were practical measures to maintain social order and protect individuals and their property. These regulations also served as a deterrent against negligence, encouraging owners to take proactive steps in managing their animals.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:

From a moral perspective, the biblical instructions on goring emphasize the importance of vigilance and responsibility. Owners are expected to be aware of their animals' behavior and take necessary precautions to prevent harm. This principle can be extended to modern applications, where individuals are called to act responsibly with their possessions and ensure they do not pose a danger to others.

Conclusion:

The biblical treatment of goring provides insight into the values of justice, responsibility, and the sanctity of life. These principles continue to resonate, offering guidance on ethical conduct and the importance of safeguarding the well-being of others in a community.1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Gore.

2. (n.) Alt. of Goring cloth.

5056. naggach -- given to goring (used of bulls)
... 5055, 5056. naggach. 5057 . given to goring (used of bulls). Transliteration:
naggach Phonetic Spelling: (nag-gawkh') Short Definition: goring. ...
/hebrew/5056.htm - 6k

part ii
... at the heart of a man and all his being; they do not let him rest, they continually
suck his heart; sins are"prickly thorns, constantly goring the soul; sins ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

Goring (2 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Gore. 2. (n.) Alt. of Goring
cloth. Multi-Version Concordance Goring (2 Occurrences). ...
/g/goring.htm - 7k

Penned (3 Occurrences)
... Exodus 21:29 But if the bull had a habit of goring in the past, and it has been
testified to its owner, and he has not kept it in, but it has killed a man or a ...
/p/penned.htm - 7k

Bull (114 Occurrences)
... Exodus 21:29 But if the bull had a habit of goring in the past, and it has been
testified to its owner, and he has not kept it in, but it has killed a man or a ...
/b/bull.htm - 40k

Habit (9 Occurrences)
... Exodus 21:29 But if the bull had a habit of goring in the past, and it has been
testified to its owner, and he has not kept it in, but it has killed a man or a ...
/h/habit.htm - 10k

Previously (44 Occurrences)
... Exodus 21:29 But if the bull had a habit of goring in the past, and it has been
testified to its owner, and he has not kept it in, but it has killed a man or a ...
/p/previously.htm - 20k

Owner (56 Occurrences)
... Exodus 21:29 But if the bull had a habit of goring in the past, and it has been
testified to its owner, and he has not kept it in, but it has killed a man or a ...
/o/owner.htm - 24k

Past (200 Occurrences)
... Exodus 21:29 But if the bull had a habit of goring in the past, and it has been
testified to its owner, and he has not kept it in, but it has killed a man or a ...
/p/past.htm - 37k

Gorgias

/g/gorgias.htm - 7k

Gortyna

/g/gortyna.htm - 6k

Stoned (38 Occurrences)
... Exodus 21:29 But if the bull had a habit of goring in the past, and it has been
testified to its owner, and he has not kept it in, but it has killed a man or a ...
/s/stoned.htm - 18k

Goring: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus