Exodus 21:30 Meaning and Explanation
“If there be laid on him a sum of money, then he shall give for the ransom of his life whatsoever is laid upon him.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The penalty for a deadly ox can be converted to a monetary ransom set by the victim's family and authorities.
The Context of Exodus 21:30
An owner's death penalty may be commuted for monetary ransom
What Does Exodus 21:30 Mean?
While execution is the default penalty for a negligent owner whose ox kills, the law permits a ransom: a monetary payment set by others (the victim's family and authorities) that substitutes for the owner's death. This creates a path to mercy if the community allows it.
The ransom system acknowledges that life and death are not the only possible outcomes, though the default justice is severe. It permits communities to choose leniency, converting capital liability into financial restitution while leaving the decision with those most affected.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 21:30
What does Exodus 21:30 mean?
The penalty for a deadly ox can be converted to a monetary ransom set by the victim's family and authorities.
What is the context of Exodus 21:30?
An owner's death penalty may be commuted for monetary ransom