King James Version
What Does Exodus 21:35 Mean?
“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.”
Context
33
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;
34
The owner of the pit shall make it good, and give money unto the owner of them; and the dead beast shall be his.
35
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.
36
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.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(35-36) **if one** **man’s ox hurt another’s.**—Where no blame attached to the owner, the loss was to be equally shared. Where the dangerous character of the animal was, or ought to have been, known, the man whose ox was killed received its full value.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission.
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Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). 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 21:35 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.