Old Testament
Exodus 21:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
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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.
What Exodus 21:19 means
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
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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 21:19 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.
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