Old Testament
Exodus 21:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If an ox gores a man or a woman to death, the ox must be stoned, and its meat must not be eaten. But the owner of the ox is not held responsible.
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If an ox gore a man or a woman, that they die: then the ox shall be surely stoned, and his flesh shall not be eaten; but the owner of the ox shall be quit.
What Exodus 21:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a specific law regarding the responsibility of an ox owner. If an ox kills a person, the animal is to be stoned, which reflects the seriousness of the situation. The meat of the ox cannot be eaten, indicating that it is considered unclean due to the act of killing. Interestingly, the owner of the ox is not held responsible for the death. This law highlights the importance of animal control and the consequences of negligence. It also shows a distinction between the actions of the animal and the accountability of its owner. The focus is on ensuring safety within the community and preventing harm. This law may seem harsh, but it serves to protect individuals from dangerous animals and encourages owners to take responsibility for their livestock. Overall, it emphasizes the need for caution and care in managing animals that can pose a threat to others, reminding us of the importance of being responsible for what we own and the potential impact on those around us.
How to apply Exodus 21:28 to your life
This passage encourages us to take responsibility for our possessions and their impact on others. Just as ox owners must ensure their animals are safe, we should be mindful of how our actions affect those around us. Being proactive in preventing harm is essential in our daily lives and relationships. We must consider the consequences of our choices carefully, ensuring safety for everyone involved. It’s a reminder to be vigilant and responsible.
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 21:28 mean?
Exodus 21:28 outlines a law stating that if an ox kills a person, the ox must be stoned and its meat cannot be eaten. This reflects the seriousness of the incident and indicates that the owner is not held responsible for the animal's actions.
What is the meaning of the ox being stoned in Exodus 21:28?
The stoning of the ox in Exodus 21:28 signifies the severe consequences of the animal's actions, emphasizing the need for accountability in managing potentially dangerous animals.
What does this verse teach about responsibility?
This verse teaches that while the owner of the ox is not held responsible for the death, it highlights the importance of animal control and the need for owners to ensure their animals do not pose a threat to others.
What are the consequences mentioned in Exodus 21:28?
The consequences in Exodus 21:28 include the stoning of the ox and the prohibition of eating its meat, which underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for community safety.
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