Exodus 21:28: “If a bull gores a man or woman to death, the bull is to be stoned to death, and its meat must not be eaten. But the owner of the bull will not be held responsible.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 21:28 addresses the situation where an animal, specifically a bull, causes the death of a person. According to the law, if a bull gores a man or woman to death, the bull must be put to death by stoning, and its meat must not be eaten. However, the owner of the bull is not held responsible for the death, provided that this was the first instance of such behavior from the bull. This verse establishes a legal precedent that balances justice with fairness, ensuring that the animal is dealt with, while the owner is not unfairly punished if they had no prior knowledge of the bull’s dangerous behavior.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, animals were an integral part of daily life, serving as sources of labor, food, and wealth. Bulls, in particular, were valuable assets used for plowing fields and other heavy labor. However, because of their size and strength, bulls could also be dangerous. The laws in Exodus 21 were designed to address the risks associated with living alongside such animals, providing guidelines for what to do when an animal causes harm.
The stoning of the bull, and the prohibition against eating its meat, served both as a form of justice and as a ritual act that acknowledged the seriousness of the offense. It was important to remove any potential benefit from the animal to underscore the value of human life and the gravity of the situation.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 21:28 emphasizes the sanctity of human life. The command to stone the bull reflects the principle that life is precious and that any loss of life must be taken seriously. The law also illustrates the importance of accountability. While the owner is not held responsible if the bull had no previous history of violence, the situation would be different if the bull had shown aggressive tendencies before, as described in the following verses (Exodus 21:29). This highlights the balance between justice and fairness in God’s law.
The prohibition against eating the meat of the bull reinforces the idea that there should be no profit or benefit from an act that results in the loss of life. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that wrongdoing, even by an animal, should not lead to gain or benefit.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 21:28 is part of the Covenant Code, a collection of laws given to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. The verse is written in a straightforward, legalistic style, typical of the laws in this section of Exodus. The law is specific, addressing a particular scenario involving a bull, but the principles it embodies—justice, the sanctity of life, and the importance of accountability—are broadly applicable.
The structure of the verse is clear and concise, making it easy to understand and apply. The mention of stoning the bull and not eating its meat adds a ritualistic element to the legal requirement, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other biblical passages relate to the themes found in Exodus 21:28:
- Genesis 9:5-6: “And for your lifeblood I will surely demand an accounting. I will demand an accounting from every animal. And from each human being, too, I will demand an accounting for the life of another human being. Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made mankind.”
- Exodus 21:29: The following verse provides further instruction on what happens if the bull was known to be dangerous beforehand.
- Numbers 35:33: “Do not pollute the land where you are. Bloodshed pollutes the land, and atonement cannot be made for the land on which blood has been shed, except by the blood of the one who shed it.”
These references emphasize the importance of accountability for the loss of life, whether caused by humans or animals, and the seriousness with which God views the sanctity of life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 21:28 serves as a reminder of the importance of valuing and protecting human life. While the specific scenario of a bull goring someone may not be common today, the principles behind the law are still relevant. Christians are called to be responsible and to take seriously the potential harm that could come from their actions or from things under their control. This verse also encourages believers to think about how they can prevent harm to others, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
The law’s emphasis on accountability and justice also challenges Christians to reflect on how they respond to situations where harm has occurred, ensuring that they act in ways that are fair and just.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love through His concern for justice and the protection of human life. By establishing clear consequences for harm caused by animals, God demonstrates His desire for a just society where life is valued and protected. The law also shows God’s fairness, as the owner is not held responsible if there was no prior reason to believe the bull was dangerous. This balance of justice and fairness reflects God’s loving and just nature, where every life is precious, and accountability is upheld in a way that is fair and equitable.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ’s teachings often emphasized the value of life and the importance of justice and mercy. In the New Testament, Jesus challenges His followers to consider how their actions affect others and to live in a way that reflects God’s love and justice. While the specific laws of Exodus may not directly apply, the principles behind them are fulfilled in Jesus, who embodies perfect justice and mercy.
Jesus’ teaching on the importance of love and responsibility, particularly in how we treat others, connects directly to the principles found in Exodus 21:28. He calls His followers to a higher standard of care and concern for one another, ensuring that we do all we can to protect and value the lives of those around us.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Exodus 21:28 challenge us to think about our responsibility in preventing harm to others?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of valuing and protecting human life?
- How can Christians today apply the principles of justice and accountability in their daily lives?
- In what ways does Jesus’ teaching on love and responsibility deepen our understanding of this verse, and how can we live out His teachings?
- How does this passage reflect God’s character, and how should that impact our relationship with Him and others?
This article explores the meaning of Exodus 21:28, offering insights into its relevance for modern Christian living and drawing connections to broader biblical themes of justice, the sanctity of life, and the importance of accountability and fairness.