Exodus 21:22 (KJV)

What does Exodus 21:22 mean?

Exodus 21:22 describes a situation where two men are fighting and accidentally injure a pregnant woman, causing her to give birth prematurely, but without any further harm to her or the child. In this case, the man responsible must pay a fine, set by the woman's husband and approved by judges.

This verse is part of a set of laws God gives to the Israelites through Moses, focusing on justice and compensation for harm done to others. The verse highlights a specific scenario involving accidental injury during a fight, showing that even unintended harm—especially to vulnerable people like pregnant women—requires accountability and fair restitution.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 21:22

• "Strive" (נָצָה, natsah) means to fight or quarrel, emphasizing that the harm happens during a physical conflict between men, not as a direct attack on the woman.
• "Fruit" (יֶלֶד, yeled) is a common Hebrew word for child, here referring to the unborn baby, making it clear that the law addresses harm to both mother and child.
• "Depart" (יָצָא, yatsa) means to go out or come forth, describing the child being born prematurely as a result of the injury, not necessarily implying harm or death.
• "Judges" (פָּלִיל, palil) refers to those who decide legal matters, showing that the fine is not arbitrary but subject to legal oversight.

Why Exodus 21:22 matters

• This verse clarifies that even accidental harm to a pregnant woman and her child is taken seriously and requires compensation, reflecting the value placed on both mother and unborn child in Israelite law.
• The involvement of both the husband and the judges in setting the penalty highlights a balance between personal grievance and public justice.
• Understanding the specific scenario helps avoid confusion about whether the verse is addressing intentional violence or accidental injury, and what kind of harm is in view.