King James Version

What Does Exodus 22:10 Mean?

Exodus 22:10 in the King James Version says “If a man deliver unto his neighbour an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driv... — study this verse from Exodus chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

If a man deliver unto his neighbour an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driven away, no man seeing it:

Exodus 22:10 · KJV


Context

8

If the thief be not found, then the master of the house shall be brought unto the judges, to see whether he have put his hand unto his neighbour's goods.

9

For all manner of trespass, whether it be for ox, for ass, for sheep, for raiment, or for any manner of lost thing, which another challengeth to be his, the cause of both parties shall come before the judges; and whom the judges shall condemn, he shall pay double unto his neighbour.

10

If a man deliver unto his neighbour an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driven away, no man seeing it:

11

Then shall an oath of the LORD be between them both, that he hath not put his hand unto his neighbour's goods; and the owner of it shall accept thereof, and he shall not make it good.

12

And if it be stolen from him, he shall make restitution unto the owner thereof.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
If a man deliver unto his neighbour an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driven away, no man seeing it:

This ordinance reveals God's comprehensive justice—regulating economic transactions, property rights, and social relationships. The mishpatim create framework for covenant community to flourish. Each law applies broader principles: love God supremely, love neighbor practically. Modern believers aren't bound by ceremonial laws but should pursue their spirit—justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). God's character revealed in law guides Christian ethics.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

These civil regulations distinguished Israel from surrounding nations, creating a society reflecting God's justice. The laws balance individual rights with community welfare, property rights with compassion for the poor.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this law reveal God's character—His justice, mercy, or holiness?
  2. What New Testament principles build upon or fulfill this Old Testament regulation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 20 words
כִּֽי1 of 20
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יִתֵּן֩2 of 20

deliver

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

אִ֨ישׁ3 of 20

If a man

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

אֶל4 of 20
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

רֵעֵ֜הוּ5 of 20

unto his neighbour

H7453

an associate (more or less close)

חֲמ֨וֹר6 of 20

an ass

H2543

a male ass (from its dun red)

אוֹ7 of 20
H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

שׁ֥וֹר8 of 20

or an ox

H7794

a bullock (as a traveller)

אוֹ9 of 20
H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

שֶׂ֛ה10 of 20

or a sheep

H7716

a member of a flock, i.e., a sheep or goat

וְכָל11 of 20
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

בְּהֵמָ֖ה12 of 20

or any beast

H929

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

לִשְׁמֹ֑ר13 of 20

to keep

H8104

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

וּמֵ֛ת14 of 20

and it die

H4191

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

אֽוֹ15 of 20
H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

נִשְׁבַּ֥ר16 of 20

or be hurt

H7665

to burst (literally or figuratively)

אֽוֹ17 of 20
H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

נִשְׁבָּ֖ה18 of 20

or driven away

H7617

to transport into captivity

אֵ֥ין19 of 20
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

רֹאֶֽה׃20 of 20

no man seeing

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)


Study Guide

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 22:10 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 22:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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