Old Testament

Exodus 21:19

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, we see a situation where someone has been injured by another person.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

If the injured man recovers and is able to walk around with a staff, the one who struck him will not be held guilty. However, he must compensate for the man's lost time and ensure he is fully healed.

KJVKing James Version

If he rise again, and walk abroad upon his staff, then shall he that smote him be quit: only he shall pay for the loss of his time, and shall cause him to be thoroughly healed.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, we see a situation where someone has been injured by another person. If the injured person recovers and can walk again, the one who caused the injury is not held guilty of a crime. However, this does not mean they are free from responsibility. They must compensate the injured person for the time lost due to the injury. Additionally, they are required to ensure that the injured person is fully healed. This reflects a principle of accountability and care for others. It emphasizes that while accidents can happen, there is a moral obligation to make things right. The focus is on healing and restoration, rather than punishment. This approach encourages a sense of community and support, reminding us that our actions have consequences that affect others. It teaches us to be responsible and compassionate in our dealings with one another, fostering a culture of healing and understanding in our relationships. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of taking care of one another in times of need.

How to apply Exodus 21:19 to your life

In our daily lives, we should strive to take responsibility for our actions and their impact on others. If we hurt someone, whether physically or emotionally, we must seek to make amends. This could mean offering support, time, or resources to help them heal. By doing so, we foster stronger relationships and a more caring community. Remember, healing is a shared journey that requires our active participation and empathy towards others.

Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Exodus 21:19 mean?

Exodus 21:19 addresses a situation where someone injures another person. If the injured person recovers and can walk again, the one who caused the injury is not guilty of a crime but must compensate for the time lost and ensure full healing.

What is the meaning of 'lost time' in Exodus 21:19?

In Exodus 21:19, 'lost time' refers to the period during which the injured person is unable to work or engage in normal activities due to the injury. The responsible party must compensate for this loss, reflecting accountability for their actions.

How does Exodus 21:19 apply to modern life?

Exodus 21:19 teaches us to take responsibility for our actions and their effects on others. In modern life, this means making amends when we hurt someone, whether physically or emotionally, and supporting their healing journey.

What principles can we learn from Exodus 21:19?

From Exodus 21:19, we learn principles of responsibility, compassion, and community support. It highlights the importance of caring for others and making things right when our actions cause harm.

The Book of Exodus
Book Summary

The Book of Exodus

Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt

The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.

Premium

Unlock the full Exodus summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Exodus — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 40 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Exodus summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.