Exodus 23:5
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.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 13
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
תִרְאֶ֞ה
If thou see
H7200
תִרְאֶ֞ה
If thou see
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
2 of 13
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
רֹבֵץ֙
thee lying
H7257
רֹבֵץ֙
thee lying
Strong's:
H7257
Word #:
5 of 13
to crouch (on all four legs folded, like a recumbent animal); by implication, to recline, repose, brood, lurk, imbed
תַּ֣חַת
H8478
תַּ֣חַת
Strong's:
H8478
Word #:
6 of 13
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
מַשָּׂא֔וֹ
under his burden
H4853
מַשָּׂא֔וֹ
under his burden
Strong's:
H4853
Word #:
7 of 13
a burden; figuratively, an utterance, chiefly a doom, especially singing; mental, desire
וְחָֽדַלְתָּ֖
and wouldest forbear
H2308
וְחָֽדַלְתָּ֖
and wouldest forbear
Strong's:
H2308
Word #:
8 of 13
properly, to be flabby, i.e., (by implication) desist; (figuratively) be lacking or idle
Historical Context
The Book of the Covenant concludes with liturgical calendar and worship regulations, integrating Israel's civil, moral, and ceremonial life under God's comprehensive rule.
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
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.
This command shapes Israel's covenant community life, applying moral law to social relationships. God's justice concerns everyday matters—truthfulness, fairness, compassion. The accumulation of ordinances creates comprehensive ethic governing Israelite society. These aren't arbitrary rules but revelations of God's character. He is just, merciful, truthful; His people must reflect these attributes. New Testament ethics build on this foundation, radicalizing commands while maintaining their spirit.