King James Version
Exodus 23:4 in the King James Version says “If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.”
Exodus 23:4 · KJV
Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment: speak: Heb. answer
Neither shalt thou countenance a poor man in his cause.
If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.
If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him. and: or, wilt thou cease to help him? or, and wouldest cease to leave thy business for him: thou shalt surely leave it to join with him
Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.
KJV Study — Public Domain
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“If thou meet”
H6293to impinge, by accident or violence, or (figuratively) by importunity
“going astray”
H8582to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both
“bring it back”
H7725to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
“bring it back”
H7725to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
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.
Exodus 23:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Exodus 23:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge