Old Testament
Exodus 21:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the law is clear: if a bull injures someone, the consequences are the same regardless of whether the victim is a son or a daughter.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
This same rule applies whether the bull gores someone's son or someone's daughter.
Whether he have gored a son, or have gored a daughter, according to this judgment shall it be done unto him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the law is clear: if a bull injures someone, the consequences are the same regardless of whether the victim is a son or a daughter. This emphasizes fairness and equality in justice. The rule applies equally to all, showing that the value of life is not determined by gender. It reflects a principle that everyone deserves protection and accountability. The law aims to ensure that actions have consequences, promoting responsibility among owners of dangerous animals. This is a reminder that we must take care of our responsibilities and consider the impact of our actions on others. Justice should be impartial and fair, ensuring that everyone is treated equally under the law. This principle can guide us in our daily interactions, encouraging us to act justly and compassionately towards all individuals, regardless of their background or identity. It teaches us to uphold fairness in our communities and relationships, fostering a sense of unity and respect for one another.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 21:31 to your life
Consider how you treat others in your life. Are you fair and just in your decisions? This verse encourages us to hold ourselves accountable and ensure that everyone is treated equally, regardless of their background. Strive to create a supportive environment for all individuals around you. Remember, fairness builds stronger communities and relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 21:31 mean?
Exodus 21:31 states that if a bull injures someone, the consequences are the same whether the victim is a son or a daughter. This highlights the importance of fairness and equality in justice, showing that all lives hold equal value.
What is the significance of fairness in Exodus 21:31?
The significance of fairness in Exodus 21:31 is that it establishes a legal principle where justice is applied equally, regardless of gender. This promotes accountability for actions and ensures that everyone is treated with the same level of protection under the law.
How does Exodus 21:31 relate to personal responsibility?
Exodus 21:31 relates to personal responsibility by reminding animal owners that they must be accountable for their animals' actions. It underscores the need for individuals to consider the impact of their responsibilities on others.
What themes are present in Exodus 21:31?
The themes present in Exodus 21:31 include justice, equality, responsibility, and fairness. These themes encourage individuals to act justly and ensure that everyone is treated equally in their communities.
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.
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