Exodus 21:35-36
Context21:35 If the ox of one man injures the ox of his neighbor so that it dies, then they will sell the live ox and divide its proceeds, 1 and they will also divide the dead ox. 2 21:36 Or if it is known that the ox had the habit of goring, and its owner did not take the necessary precautions, he must surely pay 3 ox for ox, and the dead animal will become his. 4
[21:35] 1 tn Literally “its silver” or “silver for it.”
[21:35] 2 tn Heb “divide the dead.” The noun “ox” has been supplied.
[21:36] 3 tn The construction now uses the same Piel imperfect (v. 34) but adds the infinitive absolute to it for emphasis.
[21:36] 4 sn The point of this section (21:28-36) seems to be that one must ensure the safety of others by controlling one’s property and possessions. This section pertained to neglect with animals, but the message would have applied to similar situations. The people of God were to take heed to ensure the well-being of others, and if there was a problem, it had to be made right.