King James Version

What Does Exodus 23:5 Mean?

“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”

Context

3

Neither shalt thou countenance a poor man in his cause.

4

If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.

5

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

6

Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.

7

Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(5) **If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee . . . —**The sense is clear, but the words are greatly disputed. If a man sees his enemy’s ass prostrate under its burthen, he is to help to raise it up. In this case he owes a double duty—(1) to his enemy, and (2) to the suffering animal. Geddes’ emendation of *’azar *for ’*azab, *in all the three places where the verb occurs, is the simplest and best of those suggested. The passage would then run: “If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burthen, and wouldest forbear to help it, thou shalt surely help with him”—*i.e., *the owner.

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 23:5 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 23:5

Deuteronomy 22:4
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Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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