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?