Exodus 21:31
Whether he have gored a son, or have gored a daughter, according to this judgment shall it be done unto him.
Original Language Analysis
אוֹ
or
H176
אוֹ
or
Strong's:
H176
Word #:
1 of 10
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
בֵ֥ן
a son
H1121
בֵ֥ן
a son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יִגָּ֑ח
Whether he have gored
H5055
יִגָּ֑ח
Whether he have gored
Strong's:
H5055
Word #:
3 of 10
to butt with the horns; figuratively, to war against
אוֹ
or
H176
אוֹ
or
Strong's:
H176
Word #:
4 of 10
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
בַ֣ת
a daughter
H1323
בַ֣ת
a daughter
Strong's:
H1323
Word #:
5 of 10
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
יִגָּ֑ח
Whether he have gored
H5055
יִגָּ֑ח
Whether he have gored
Strong's:
H5055
Word #:
6 of 10
to butt with the horns; figuratively, to war against
כַּמִּשְׁפָּ֥ט
according to this judgment
H4941
כַּמִּשְׁפָּ֥ט
according to this judgment
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
7 of 10
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
הַזֶּ֖ה
H2088
Historical Context
The Book of the Covenant (Exodus 20:22-23:33) is Israel's foundational legal code, predating later expansions in Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. It addresses civil, criminal, and ceremonial matters.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this law reveal God's character—His justice, mercy, or holiness?
- What New Testament principles build upon or fulfill this Old Testament regulation?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Whether he have gored a son, or have gored a daughter, according to this judgment shall it be done unto him.
This judgment (mishpat) from the Book of the Covenant applies moral law to civil society. God's justice is comprehensive—addressing economic disputes, family relations, and community welfare. The case laws teach covenant people how to love God and neighbor practically. Through detailed ordinances, God shapes Israel as holy nation, distinct from pagan neighbors. These laws reveal God's character: just, merciful, concerned with details of everyday life.