Exodus 21:1
Now these are the judgments which thou shalt set before them.
Original Language Analysis
הַמִּשְׁפָּטִ֔ים
Now these are the judgments
H4941
הַמִּשְׁפָּטִ֔ים
Now these are the judgments
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
2 of 5
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
3 of 5
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
Cross References
Deuteronomy 4:14And the LORD commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go over to possess it.Deuteronomy 6:20And when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What mean the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD our God hath commanded you?
Historical Context
The Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:22-23:33) is Israel's first legal code, given immediately after the Decalogue. The mishpatim address civil, criminal, and ceremonial matters, creating comprehensive covenant society.
Questions for Reflection
- How do the mishpatim (case laws) apply the Decalogue's principles to everyday life?
- What does God giving detailed legal codes teach about His concern for justice in society?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Now these are the judgments which thou shalt set before them.
'Judgments' (מִשְׁפָּטִים, mishpatim) means judicial decisions, case laws, ordinances—applications of the Decalogue's principles to specific situations. The Ten Words (ch. 20) provide foundation; the mishpatim build the superstructure of covenant community life. 'Set before them' (תָּשִׂים לִפְנֵיהֶם, tasim lifneihem) echoes 19:7—formal presentation for acceptance. These aren't suggestions but divine legislation governing Israel's society. The mishpatim reveal God's justice: protecting the vulnerable (slaves, widows, aliens), limiting revenge (lex talionis), and establishing due process. Unlike Hammurabi's Code (which predates Moses), these laws ground justice in God's character, not king's decree.