Exodus 21:25 meaning
The principles of justice established in ancient Israel are illustrated through the laws articulated in this chapter. One striking aspect revolves around the law of retaliation, often referred to as "lex talionis," which advocates for proportionality in punishment. This serves not only to limit the excesses of personal vengeance but also to underline moral accountability for one's actions. Thus, when harm is done to another, the punishment must directly correspond to the offense committed. This foundational concept can be seen in how the Israelites were instructed to resolve disputes, ensuring justice was both served and measured fairly.
For example, in Exodus 21:25, the stipulated consequences reflect a clear adherence to the principle that one's actions bear weight in the sphere of justice—punishments such as an eye for an eye or a tooth for a tooth are both meant to contain and control the impulses toward revenge. This biblical injunction has significant implications for understanding societal ethics, emphasizing the importance of legal frameworks that uphold fairness while also preventing the spiral of violent retribution.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Exodus 21:18-27 meaning. Here are the judgements for four instances of violence done to a person where the victim does not die. The four instances are: violence between free people, violence done to servants, violence done to a pregnant woman which causes the loss of her baby, and bodily injury to a servant.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Exodus 21:2-11 meaning. The first section of the Book of the Covenant concerns how male and female servants (or slaves) were to be treated.
- Exodus 7:14-25 meaning. Since the account of the plagues upon Egypt begins here in verse 14 and extends to 12:32, it is useful to include a word of introduction.
- Exodus 21:18-27 meaning. Here are the judgements for four instances of violence done to a person where the victim does not die. The four instances are: violence between free people, violence done to servants, violence done to a pregnant woman which causes the loss of her baby, and bodily injury to a servant.
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