King James Version
What Does Exodus 21:23 Mean?
“And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life,”
Context
21
Notwithstanding, if he continue a day or two, he shall not be punished: for he is his money.
22
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.
23
And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life,
24
Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
25
Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible CommentaryCHAPTER 19 Ex 19:1-25. Arrival at Sinai.
**1. In the third month--**according to Jewish usage, the first day of that month--"same day."--It is added, to mark the time more explicitly, that is, forty-five days after Egypt--one day spent on the mount (Ex 19:3), one returning the people's answer (Ex 19:7, 8), three days of preparation, making the whole time fifty days from the first passover to the promulgation of the law. Hence the feast of pentecost, that is, the fiftieth day, was the inauguration of the Old Testament church, and the divine wisdom is apparent in the selection of the same reason for the institution of the New Testament church (Joh 1:17; Ac 2:1).
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 21:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 21:23
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge