Definition: If he came in by himself, he shall go out by himself: if he were married, then his wife shall go out with him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 21:3. It’s a really important and slightly unusual passage about how animals are handled during Passover. Here's the explanation in simple terms: Basically, it means: “If an animal comes to you by itself – meaning it’s not part of a group – then it must go out with you.” Let’s unpack it further: “If he came to you by himself…” This refers to a young goat or sheep that is separated from its flock. It's a special moment for the Passover ritual. “…he shall go out by himself…” This is the key part – the animal must go out on its own. It’s not allowed to be brought to you with others. “if he were married, then his wife shall go out with him.” This is where it gets a little more fascinating and symbolic. It highlights the importance of family relationships in the Passover story. The wife of the goat (or sheep) was expected to come along with the animal. Why is this important? This verse is about respecting the relationship between the animal and its flock. It's a reminder that the animal belongs with its family, and it’s a sign of respect and unity. In short, it’s a rule about how to handle animals during Passover – they must go out on their own. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the Passover story?

Definition: If there be laid on him a sum of money, then he shall give for the ransom of his life whatsoever is laid upon him.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 21:30. It’s a really important and slightly unusual part of the story of Abraham’s sacrifice! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse says that if someone offers a ransom (a payment) for the life of their deceased loved one, they must also pay for that ransom. Let's unpack it further: “If there be laid on him a sum of money…” – This means that when someone is dying, and their family needs to pay for burial or funeral expenses, they need to provide a specific amount of money. “…then he shall give for the ransom of his life whatsoever is laid upon him.” - This is the key part! It’s saying that anyone who offers this ransom – whether it's a small amount or a large sum – must also contribute to covering those funeral costs. The Context is Important: This verse comes from a story about Abraham, a very important figure in Jewish and Christian tradition. God told Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac as a test of faith. After Isaac’s death, God instructed Abraham to offer a ransom for his life – a payment that would be made to the family of the deceased. This verse is a specific rule established by God to ensure a fair and just outcome in this difficult situation. Why is it significant? It’s a powerful reminder that even though we don't always understand why things are the way they are, there are rules and obligations that must be followed. It emphasizes responsibility and the importance of fulfilling our commitments, especially when dealing with matters of life and death. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this verse might mean in a broader theological context? Give an example of how this verse is used today?

Definition: Whether he have gored a son, or have gored a daughter, according to this judgment shall it be done unto him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 21:31. It's a pretty significant and somewhat unusual passage about how animals are handled – specifically, about how the shepherding process goes wrong. Here’s a simple explanation: What it means in plain English: “Whether he has harmed a son or a daughter, according to this judgment, shall be done unto him.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Exodus 21..." : This refers to a specific story in the Book of Exodus – a detailed account of how the first sacrificial animals (like lambs and goats) were prepared for the Israelites. "...and have gored a son..." - This means that one shepherd accidentally injured or killed a son. "...or have gored a daughter..." - This means one shepherd accidentally injured or killed a daughter. "...according to this judgment shall it be done unto him." : This is the key part. The verse says that if a shepherd makes a mistake – if he inadvertently harms a son or daughter – they will automatically suffer a consequence. It’s like a punishment for their carelessness. What does it mean practically? This verse establishes a principle of responsibility and accountability within the animal husbandry community. It's a way of saying: "The person who cares for animals is responsible for ensuring they don't harm anyone." Why is this important in the Bible? Emphasis on Care: It highlights the importance of careful handling, respect, and responsibility when dealing with animals – especially livestock. Justice and Fairness: It suggests a level of justice; if someone makes a mistake, they will experience a consequence. This reinforces the idea that good stewardship is important. In short, this verse tells us that mistakes in animal care can have serious repercussions – it's a reminder to be mindful and diligent. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Exodus 21? Discuss the context of this passage within the broader story of the animals? Relate it to a modern-day concept like responsibility or accountability?

Definition: If the ox shall push a manservant or a maidservant; he shall give unto their master thirty shekels of silver, and the ox shall be stoned.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from Exodus 21:32. It’s a pretty serious and interesting passage about fairness and responsibility in the workplace – or, in this case, in the agricultural world! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that if an ox pushes a manservant or maidservant, they are to be compensated with 30 silver coins. Let's unpack that a little further: “If the ox shall push…” This describes a specific situation – an ox is moving something. “…a manservant or a maidservant” This specifies who is involved. It’s not about just any worker; it's specifically about those who are bound to work for the owner. “He shall give unto their master thirty shekels of silver…” This means the ox owner will give 30 silver coins (a unit of currency in that time) to the owner as compensation for the labor of the manservant or maidservant. Think of it like a reward for their work. “…and the ox shall be stoned.” – This is the consequence . If the ox pushes the servant/maidservant, they are considered a serious offense and will be punished. The owner must "stone" them as a form of punishment. The Context & Why It's Important: This story appears in Exodus 21:32. It’s a powerful example from the Old Testament about justice and fairness . It’s a reminder that work should be treated with respect and that those who work for someone have a right to compensation. Important Note: It's crucial to understand this verse in context. It wasn’t meant to be a casual rule – it was a very strict law designed to protect the owners of labor and ensure fair treatment. It highlights the importance of respecting people’s rights and ensuring they are compensated for their work. Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in Jewish tradition? Discuss its connection to other stories in the Bible? Give you some context about the history of this law?

Definition: And if a man shall open a pit, or if a man shall dig a pit, and not cover it, and an ox or an ass fall therein;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 21:33. It’s a pretty interesting and important passage about responsibility and protection. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Situation: “And if a man shall open a pit, or if a man shall dig a pit, and not cover it, and an ox or an ass fall therein,”… this describes a situation where someone is carelessly digging a hole – a pit. Let’s unpack it: "If a man shall open a pit…" : This means someone deliberately creates a hole. It’s a conscious act of digging. “…or if a man shall dig a pit…” : This reinforces the idea that it’s not accidental or unintentional digging. “and not cover it…” : This is crucial . The person isn't trying to hide the hole. They simply aren’t putting any covering on it. “…and an ox or an ass fall therein.” : This tells us what happens if the hole is left open. An ox or ass (a large, heavy animal) falls into that pit. The Moral of the Story – It's About Responsibility: This verse highlights a serious responsibility. It’s not enough to just dig a hole; you must take precautions and protect what you’re doing. It emphasizes that we are responsible for our actions and how we treat our property. Why is this important? Protecting Animals: This verse shows God's concern for the well-being of animals. It's a reminder to be careful not to harm or endanger them. Respecting Property: It underscores the importance of respecting and safeguarding things we own – like land, livestock, and even tools. In short, this verse is a warning against carelessness and encourages us to take care and protect what we possess. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Provide context for the story in Exodus 21?

Definition: The owner of the pit shall make [it] good, [and] give money unto the owner of them; and the dead [beast] shall be his.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 21:34. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising passage about animals in the Old Testament! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a specific process for dealing with carcasses after an animal is slaughtered. “The owner of the pit shall make [it] good…” – This means the person who killed the animal (the “owner of the pit”) has to restore or improve the carcass. It’s about making it usable again. Think of it like fixing up a broken tool after you've used it. “…and give money unto the owner of them…” – This is where it gets a little weird. The person who owns the pit (the one who killed the animal) must pay money to the owner of the carcass. It’s a financial obligation. “And the dead [beast] shall be his.” - This is the really important part. After the process of restoring and paying money, the person who owns the carcass gets to keep the dead animal. It's like they get to keep the leftover carcass as a reward or a souvenir. In short, this verse establishes a system where the owner of the pit receives a payment for cleaning up and retaining the carcass after an animal is killed. Why is this important? This passage is rooted in ancient Jewish law and traditions. It reflects a belief that the animals are sacred and should be treated with respect. It’s also connected to the idea of the "good shefa" – a Jewish principle of fair exchange, where you receive what you give. Does this make sense? Do you have any questions about it or would you like me to explain anything in more detail? For example, are you curious about: Its connection to other biblical stories? The historical context of the law it describes?

Definition: And if one man’s ox hurt another’s, that he die; then they shall sell the live ox, and divide the money of it; and the dead [ox] also they shall divide.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 21:35. It's a pretty serious rule set up for livestock – specifically, oxen – in ancient Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core of the Verse: “And if one man’s ox hurts another’s ox…” This is the key part. It highlights a situation where an animal gets into a conflict and causes harm. What Happens Next? “…that he die…” This means that if this happens, the ox will perish. It's a tragic outcome. “Then they shall sell the live ox…” The owner of the injured ox is obligated to sell it for money. “…and divide the money of it.” This is the crucial part. The owner must split the money earned from selling the dead ox. What’s the Point? This verse is a direct consequence of God's law and designed to protect the livestock. It illustrates several important points: Responsibility: The owner has a responsibility to care for their animals and ensure they are safe. Fairness & Justice: It establishes a system where harm to one animal must result in loss for both. It’s about maintaining order and fairness within the community. Financial Consequences: This verse emphasizes that livestock are valuable, so the owner has a financial stake in resolving the situation fairly. In short, it's a rule of law designed to maintain stability and protect property – specifically, the value of an animal. --- Disclaimer: I’m an AI Chatbot and not a religious scholar. This explanation is based on interpretations of biblical texts and should be considered a general overview. Different theological perspectives may have varying understandings of this passage. Would you like me to: Explain any other parts of the verse? Discuss the historical context surrounding this law?

Definition: Or if it be known that the ox hath used to push in time past, and his owner hath not kept him in; he shall surely pay ox for ox; and the dead shall be his own.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 21:36. It’s a pretty serious statement about responsibility and compensation! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about responsibility for livestock. Specifically, it’s about the consequences when an ox (a large farm animal) causes damage to another animal – or even someone else’s property. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “If it be known that the ox hath used to push in time past, and his owner hath not kept him in…” This means the farmer knows the ox has been using another animal (or something) to push it around. It’s a confession of wrongdoing. It's important because it establishes a clear issue. “…he shall surely pay ox for ox; and the dead shall be his own.” This is the core of the verse. Here's what it means: “Pay ox for ox” : The farmer must compensate the owner of the animal that was harmed. It’s a direct monetary payment. “The dead shall be his own” : This is a very strong statement. After the ox causes damage, it becomes the owner's property and they are responsible for all the consequences of its actions. It means the ox essentially becomes ‘owned’ by the one who caused the harm. In simpler terms: If an animal uses another animal to cause problems, the farmer is legally obligated to pay back what was lost or damaged. It’s a way of ensuring fairness and accountability in the farming process. Important Context (Briefly): This verse appears in the Book of Exodus and is part of a larger story about God’s covenant with Abraham and his descendants. It's often interpreted as a symbolic representation of God’s laws and justice being enforced. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context of this verse? Discuss its significance in a broader Biblical story? Compare it to another related passage?