Topical Encyclopedia In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, the ox was a vital asset, essential for plowing fields, threshing grain, and transporting goods. Recognizing the importance of this animal, the Mosaic Law provided specific instructions regarding the treatment of oxen, particularly when they were in distress.Biblical Mandate The law concerning an ox fallen under its burden is found in the Book of Deuteronomy. The directive is clear and emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to assist in such situations, regardless of personal feelings towards the owner of the animal. Deuteronomy 22:4 states: "If you see your brother’s donkey or ox fallen on the road, do not ignore it. Help him lift it up." This command underscores the principle of compassion and communal responsibility. It reflects the broader biblical ethic of loving one's neighbor and acting with kindness and mercy, even towards animals. The law does not allow for indifference; rather, it calls for proactive assistance. Moral and Ethical Implications The requirement to help an ox fallen under its burden extends beyond mere animal welfare. It serves as a tangible expression of the love and care that should characterize the community of God's people. The act of helping to lift the burdened animal is a demonstration of obedience to God's commandments and a reflection of His character, which is marked by mercy and compassion. Furthermore, this law implicitly teaches the value of diligence and responsibility. It encourages individuals to be attentive to the needs of others, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual aid. The act of helping an ox in distress is a practical application of the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (cf. Matthew 7:12). Application in Ancient Israel In the context of ancient Israel, where livestock was a primary source of livelihood, the well-being of an ox was directly linked to the economic stability of a household. Therefore, the law served to protect not only the animal but also the owner's means of sustenance. By ensuring that an ox was not left to suffer under its burden, the community safeguarded its own economic health and stability. Broader Theological Significance The law concerning the fallen ox also points to a broader theological truth about God's care for all creation. It reflects the biblical theme that God is concerned with the details of life and that His laws are designed to promote the flourishing of both humans and animals. This provision is a reminder of the stewardship role that humanity holds over creation, as outlined in Genesis. In summary, the law regarding an ox fallen under its burden is a multifaceted command that highlights the importance of compassion, responsibility, and community support. It serves as a reminder of the ethical and moral standards that God set for His people, encouraging them to act with kindness and integrity in all aspects of life. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 22:4You shall not see your brother's ass or his ox fall down by the way, and hide yourself from them: you shall surely help him to lift them up again. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! Exposition of the Moral Law. The Pharisee and the Publican Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican The Desire of the Righteous Granted; A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... Resources Why does the KJV Bible mention the unicorn? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to be unequally yoked? | GotQuestions.org Should pastors be paid a salary? | GotQuestions.org Ox: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Ox used for Carrying Burdens The Ox used for Drawing Wagons The Ox used for Earing the Ground The Ox used for Treading out the Corn The Ox was Clean and Fit for Food The Ox: (Engaged in Husbandry) of Ministers The Ox: (Led to Slaughter) of a Rash Youth The Ox: (Led to Slaughter) of Saints Under Persecution The Ox: (Not Muzzled in Treading Corn) of Minister's Right To The Ox: (Prepared for a Feast) the Provision of the Gospel The Ox: (Stall Fed) Sumptuous Living The Ox: Bull or Bullock of Fierce Enemies The Ox: Bull or Bullock: (Fatted) of Greedy Mercenaries The Ox: Bull or Bullock: (Firstling of) of the Glory of Joseph The Ox: Bull or Bullock: (In a Net) of the Impatient Under Judgment The Ox: Bull or Bullock: (Unaccustomed to the Yoke) Intractable Sinners The Ox: Custom of Sending the Pieces of, to Collect the People to War The Ox: Formed a Part of the Patriarchal Wealth The Ox: Formed a Part of the Wealth of Israel in Egypt The Ox: Formed a Part of the Wealth of the Jews The Ox: Goes to the Slaughter Unconscious The Ox: Heifer of a Beloved Wife The Ox: Heifer: (At Grass) of the Luxurious Chaldees The Ox: Heifer: (Fair) of the Beauty and Wealth of Egypt The Ox: Heifer: (Of Three Years Old) Moab in Affliction The Ox: Heifer: (Sliding Back) Backsliding Israel The Ox: Heifer: (Taught) Israel's Fondness for Ease in Preference To The Ox: Herdmen Appointed Over The Ox: Horns and Hoofs of, Alluded To The Ox: Kine of Proud and Wealthy Rules The Ox: Kine: (Lean) of Years of Scarcity The Ox: Kine: (Well Favoured) Years of Plenty The Ox: Laws Respecting of Others If Lost or Hurt Through Neglect, to be Made Good The Ox: Laws Respecting of Others not to be Coveted The Ox: Laws Respecting: Fallen Under Its Burden to be Raised up Again The Ox: Laws Respecting: Fat of, not to be Eaten The Ox: Laws Respecting: If Stolen to be Restored Double The Ox: Laws Respecting: Killing a Man, to be Stoned The Ox: Laws Respecting: Mode of Reparation for One, Killing Another The Ox: Laws Respecting: Not to be Muzzled when Treading out the Corn The Ox: Laws Respecting: Not to be Yoked With an Donkey in the Same Plough The Ox: Laws Respecting: Straying to be Brought Back to Its Owner The Ox: Laws Respecting: To Rest on the Sabbath The Ox: Male Firstlings of, Belonged to God The Ox: Often Given As a Present The Ox: Often Stall-Fed for Slaughter The Ox: Rapid Manner of Collecting Its Food Alluded To The Ox: Required Great Care and Attention The Ox: Sea of Brass Rested on Figures of The Ox: The Wicked often Took, in Pledge from the Poor The Ox: Tithe of, Given to the Priests The Ox: Young of, Considered a Great Delicacy Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |