Book of Exodus - Chapter 21 - Verse 32

The verse you are referring to is found in the Book of Exodus, a book in the Old Testament of the Bible. This particular verse deals with the law concerning an ox that gores a manservant or maidservant. In ancient times, oxen were commonly used for agricultural purposes and were known to be powerful animals that could potentially cause harm. If an ox gored a servant, the owner of the ox was required to compensate the injured person's master with thirty shekels of silver. This was seen as a form of restitution for the loss or harm caused by the ox. Additionally, the ox itself was to be stoned as a form of punishment for its actions. This law served as a way to ensure that owners of dangerous animals took responsibility for their actions and provided compensation for any harm caused.

One possible theological interpretation of this verse can be found in the significance of the payment of thirty shekels of silver for the death of a manservant or maidservant caused by an ox. In Jewish law, the payment of thirty shekels of silver was the same price paid to Judas Iscariot for betraying Jesus in the New Testament. By connecting the two instances, some theologians see a parallel between the worth of a slave and the value of Jesus in this verse. This interpretation highlights the idea of redemption and the importance of the sanctity of human life, regardless of social status.

Additionally, a word study on the term "ox" in this verse reveals its symbolic meaning in the Bible. The ox was often used as a symbol of strength and power. In this context, the ox represents a force that can cause harm and destruction. By requiring the stoning of the ox in this verse, it emphasizes the consequences of allowing power to cause harm, regardless of intent.