Exodus 21:29

But if the ox has a habit of goring, and its owner has been warned yet does not restrain it, and it kills a man or woman, then the ox must be stoned and its owner must also be put to death.

Study Bible

But if the ox has a habit of goring
This phrase indicates a situation where an animal, specifically an ox, has shown a repeated pattern of dangerous behavior. In ancient agrarian societies, oxen were valuable for labor and agriculture, but they could also pose a threat if not properly managed. The law here reflects a concern for public safety and personal responsibility. The habitual nature of the ox's behavior suggests a known risk, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and accountability.

and its owner has been warned
The owner being warned implies a legal and communal responsibility. In the context of ancient Israel, community leaders or witnesses would likely have issued such a warning. This reflects the communal nature of ancient societies where individuals were accountable not only to themselves but to their community. The warning serves as a formal notice, shifting the responsibility onto the owner to take corrective action.

yet does not restrain it
Failure to restrain the ox after a warning indicates negligence. Restraint could involve physical measures such as tethering or confining the animal. This part of the law underscores the expectation of proactive measures to prevent harm. It highlights the moral and legal obligation to act upon knowledge of potential danger, a principle that resonates with broader biblical themes of stewardship and care for others.

and it kills a man or woman
The consequence of the ox's actions is severe, resulting in the death of a person. This underscores the value of human life in biblical law. The inclusion of both "man or woman" indicates the equal value placed on all human life, reflecting the creation narrative where both male and female are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The gravity of the outcome necessitates a serious response.

then the ox must be stoned
Stoning the ox serves as a form of capital punishment for the animal, removing the threat it poses. This action also serves as a public deterrent, reinforcing the seriousness of the offense. In biblical law, stoning was a common method of execution for severe transgressions, symbolizing the community's role in upholding justice and purity.

and its owner must also be put to death
The owner's death penalty highlights the severe consequences of negligence. This reflects the biblical principle of life for life, as seen in Genesis 9:6, where the sanctity of human life is paramount. The law serves as a sobering reminder of the weight of responsibility and the potential consequences of failing to protect others. It also points to the need for atonement and justice, themes central to the biblical narrative and ultimately fulfilled in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, who bore the penalty for sin on behalf of humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Ox
A domesticated animal used for labor, which in this context represents a potential danger if not properly managed.

2. The Owner
The person responsible for the ox, who is held accountable for the animal's actions if negligence is involved.

3. The Victim
The man or woman who is killed by the ox, highlighting the severity of the incident.

4. The Warning
A prior notification given to the owner about the ox's dangerous behavior, emphasizing the owner's responsibility.

5. The Stoning
The prescribed punishment for the ox, symbolizing the removal of the threat and the seriousness of the offense.

Teaching Points

Responsibility and Accountability
Owners are responsible for their property and its potential to harm others. This principle extends to all areas of life where we have influence or control.

The Importance of Heeding Warnings
Ignoring warnings can lead to severe consequences. We must be attentive to signs and counsel that guide us away from potential harm.

The Value of Human Life
The severe penalty for negligence underscores the value God places on human life. We are called to protect and respect life in all its forms.

Justice and Fairness
God's law is just and fair, holding individuals accountable for their actions and inactions. We should strive to reflect this justice in our dealings with others.

Preventive Measures
Taking proactive steps to prevent harm is a biblical principle. We should seek to identify and mitigate risks in our lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of accountability in Exodus 21:29 apply to modern-day responsibilities, such as owning a business or managing a household?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are heeding warnings in our spiritual and personal lives?

3. How does the value of human life, as emphasized in this passage, influence our interactions with others in our community?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure justice and fairness in our daily decisions and actions?

5. How can we apply the concept of preventive measures from this passage to our spiritual walk and relationships with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:5-6
This passage discusses the sanctity of human life and the requirement for justice when blood is shed, reinforcing the principle of accountability for life.

Leviticus 24:17-21
These verses outline the principle of "an eye for an eye," which underscores the importance of proportional justice, similar to the consequences described in Exodus 21:29.

Matthew 5:21-22
Jesus expands on the commandment against murder, emphasizing the heart's intent, which can be related to the owner's negligence in Exodus 21:29.

Romans 13:1-4
This passage discusses the role of governing authorities in executing justice, which can be seen as a parallel to the legal stipulations in Exodus.

1 Corinthians 9:9-10
Paul references the law about oxen to illustrate broader principles of care and responsibility, which can be applied to the owner's duty in Exodus 21:29.