Exodus 21:22 meaning
In ancient Israel, the legal framework emphasized the protection of vulnerable individuals, particularly women and children. Exodus 21:22 outlines the consequences when a pregnant woman is harmed in a conflict, highlighting the value placed on both her life and the life of her unborn child. The context of this law reflects a broader ethical stance where accidental harm carries significant ramifications, ensuring accountability and justice.
When an injury leads to the loss of an unborn child, the offender is deemed punishable according to the husband's wishes and judicial determinations. This reflects a nuanced legal approach that recognizes the gravity of potential harm while also considering the circumstances. The subsequent provision for a more severe penalty if the woman herself suffers as a result reiterates the protective measures in place for both mother and child. This illustrates the law as a means of moral guidance, promoting care and respect for life, and aligns with principles against violence, emphasizing justice rather than reprisal.
The scripture reads: “If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine.”.
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 30:11-16 meaning. The LORD describes what can be labeled as a "tabernacle tax." Moses was to take a census and receive a "ransom" (a half a shekel) from everyone twenty years or older. The money was to be used to maintain the tabernacle.
- Matthew 5:38-42 meaning. Jesus flips the world system of ‘justice’ on its head. He tells His disciples to seek out opportunities to serve rather than looking for opportunities to exact payback under the letter of the law.
- Genesis 15:17-21 meaning. God appeared and made the covenant with Abram. God again promises the land to Abram’s descendants and gives the details.
Set to dark modeSet to dark mode