Exodus 21:36 (KJV)

What does Exodus 21:36 mean?

Exodus 21:36 says that if it is known an ox has a habit of goring and its owner does not keep it confined, the owner must pay with another ox for the one killed, and the dead animal becomes his. This law holds the owner responsible if he knew his animal was dangerous and failed to act.

This verse is part of a set of laws God gives to Moses for the Israelites, dealing with responsibility and fairness in cases where animals cause harm. The situation described is about two people: one whose ox is known to be aggressive, and another whose ox is killed because the first owner did not take proper precautions. The rule ensures that negligence is not excused and that losses are fairly compensated.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 21:36

• "known" (יָדֹעַ, yada‘): This word means to have knowledge or awareness. The law only applies if the owner was aware of the ox’s dangerous behavior, making intent and prior knowledge crucial to the judgment.
• "push" (נַגָּח, nagach): This verb specifically refers to the act of goring or butting with horns, highlighting that the ox’s aggressive action is not accidental but a repeated, known behavior.
• "owner" (בַּעַל, ba‘al): This word means master or possessor, emphasizing the person’s responsibility for what belongs to him.
• "kept" (שָׁמַר, shamar): This verb means to guard or watch over. The law expects the owner to take active steps to prevent harm if he knows the risk.
• "surely pay" (שַׁלֵּם יְשַׁלֵּם, shalem yeshalem): This phrase doubles the verb for emphasis, stressing that full restitution is required—no shortcuts or partial payments.

Why Exodus 21:36 matters

• Exodus 21:36 clarifies that responsibility increases with knowledge; if an owner knows his animal is dangerous, he cannot claim ignorance if harm comes.
• This verse shows the law’s concern for fairness and protecting the community from preventable harm, not just punishing wrongdoing after the fact.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing a progression: accidental harm is treated differently from harm caused by negligence or repeated failure to act, setting a pattern for justice in other areas of life.