Old Testament
Exodus 21:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But if a man did not lie in wait, and God delivers him into his hand, then I will appoint a place where he can flee.
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And if a man lie not in wait, but God deliver him into his hand; then I will appoint thee a place whither he shall flee.
What Exodus 21:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a situation where a person has not planned to harm someone, yet circumstances lead to an unintended consequence. If God allows this person to be caught up in a situation where they cause harm, there is a provision for mercy. The idea is that even in moments of unintentional wrongdoing, there is a way to seek refuge. This reflects a deeper understanding of justice, where intention matters. The verse emphasizes that God recognizes the heart behind actions. It also shows that there is a designated place for those who find themselves in trouble, offering hope and a chance for redemption. This concept of a safe haven is significant, as it illustrates God's compassion and desire for restoration. It reminds us that mistakes do not have to define us, and there is always a path to healing and forgiveness, even when we stumble unexpectedly. This verse encourages us to consider the intentions behind our actions and to seek refuge when we find ourselves in difficult situations.
How to apply Exodus 21:13 to your life
When we make mistakes, it's important to remember that our intentions matter. If we find ourselves in a difficult situation, we can seek help and find a way to make things right. This verse encourages us to be compassionate towards ourselves and others. We can always look for a path to healing and forgiveness, no matter the circumstances we face. Understanding this can help us navigate our relationships with grace and empathy.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 21:13 mean?
Exodus 21:13 addresses a situation where a person unintentionally causes harm without premeditation. It highlights that if God allows this to happen, there is a provision for mercy and a designated place for the person to seek refuge.
What is the meaning of mercy in Exodus 21:13?
In Exodus 21:13, mercy refers to the compassion shown to someone who causes harm unintentionally. The verse indicates that even in such cases, there is a way to find safety and forgiveness.
How does Exodus 21:13 relate to justice?
Exodus 21:13 relates to justice by showing that true justice considers the intent behind actions. It illustrates that unintentional wrongdoing can be met with understanding and a chance for redemption.
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