◄ Exodus 22 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Property Laws 1“If a man steals an oxa or a sheep and slaughters or sells it, he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep. 2If a thief is caught breaking in and is beaten to death, no one shall be guilty of bloodshed. 3But if it happens after sunrise, there is guilt for his bloodshed. A thief must make full restitution; if he has nothing, he himself shall be sold for his theft. 4If what was stolen is actually found alive in his possession—whether ox or donkey or sheep—he must pay back double. 5If a man grazes his livestock in a field or vineyard and allows them to stray so that they graze in someone else’s field, he must make restitution from the best of his own field or vineyard. 6If a fire breaks out and spreads to thornbushes so that it consumes stacked or standing grain, or the whole field, the one who started the fire must make full restitution. 7If a man gives his neighbor money or goods for safekeeping and they are stolen from the neighbor’s house, the thief, if caught, must pay back double. 8If the thief is not found, the owner of the house must appear before the judgesb to determine whether he has taken his neighbor’s property. 9In all cases of illegal possession of an ox, a donkey, a sheep, a garment, or any lost item that someone claims, ‘This is mine,’ both parties shall bring their cases before the judges. The one whom the judges find guiltyc must pay back double to his neighbor. 10If a man gives a donkey, an ox, a sheep, or any other animal to be cared for by his neighbor, but it dies or is injured or stolen while no one is watching, 11an oath before the LORD shall be made between the parties to determine whether or not the man has taken his neighbor’s property. The owner must accept the oath and require no restitution. 12But if the animal was actually stolen from the neighbor, he must make restitution to the owner. 13If the animal was torn to pieces, he shall bring it as evidence; he need not make restitution for the torn carcass. 14If a man borrows an animal from his neighbor and it is injured or dies while its owner is not present, he must make full restitution. 15If the owner was present, no restitution is required. If the animal was rented, the fee covers the loss. Laws of Social Responsibility 16If a man seduces a virgin who is not pledged in marriage and sleeps with her, he must pay the full dowry for her to be his wife. 17If her father absolutely refuses to give her to him, the man still must pay an amount comparable to the bridal price of a virgin. 18You must not allow a sorceress to live. 19Whoever lies with an animal must surely be put to death. 20If anyone sacrifices to any god other than the LORD alone, he must be set apart for destruction.d 21You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt. 22You must not mistreat any widow or orphan. 23If you do mistreat them, and they cry out to Me in distress, I will surely hear their cry. 24My anger will be kindled, and I will kill you with the sword; then your wives will become widows and your children will be fatherless. 25If you lend money to one of My people among you who is poor, you must not act as a creditor to him; you are not to charge him interest. 26If you take your neighbor’s cloak as collateral, return it to him by sunset, 27because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in? And if he cries out to Me, I will hear, for I am compassionate. 28You must not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people.e 29You must not hold back offerings from your granaries or vats. You are to give Me the firstborn of your sons. 30You shall do likewise with your cattle and your sheep. Let them stay with their mothers for seven days, but on the eighth day you are to give them to Me. 31You are to be My holy people. You must not eat the meat of a mauled animal found in the field; you are to throw it to the dogs. Footnotes: 1 a Or a bull or a cow; also in verses 4, 9, and 10 8 b Or before God; also in verse 9 9 c Or whom God condemns 20 d Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering. 28 e LXX or speak evil about the ruler of your people; cited in Acts 23:5 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 22 Summary Property Laws Verses 1–4 – Theft and Restitution Stolen livestock had to be repaid at a higher rate—five cows for one cow, four sheep for one sheep. If the thief still possessed the animal alive, the penalty lowered to double. A night-time break-in that ended in the intruder’s death incurred no blood-guilt, but after sunrise lethal force became murder. Where full repayment was impossible, the thief was sold as a bond-servant until the debt was cleared. Verses 5–6 – Property Damage Loose animals or a runaway fire that damaged another man’s field required reimbursement from “the best” produce of the guilty party. Verses 7–15 – Safekeeping and Loans Items or animals left in a neighbor’s care created a trust. If stolen, the thief paid double; if the thief was unknown, local judges weighed evidence. Oaths settled doubtful cases. Borrowed animals that died in the owner’s absence had to be replaced; if the owner was present or the animal was rented, the fee covered the loss. Verses 16–17 – Seduction and Bride-Price A man who slept with an unbetrothed virgin owed her family the customary bride-price and was expected to marry her unless her father refused, in which case the payment still stood. Verse 18 – Sorcery Forbidden Practicing magic warranted death, cutting off occult influence from the community. Verse 19 – Bestiality Condemned Any sexual act with an animal demanded capital punishment. Verse 20 – Exclusive Worship Sacrifice to any deity but the LORD brought destruction. Verses 21–24 – Protection of the Vulnerable Israel must never oppress foreigners, widows, or orphans. Their cries reach God, who would retaliate against abusers. Verses 25–27 – Lending Without Oppression Loans to the poor were to be interest-free. Essential items taken as collateral had to be returned by nightfall because God “is compassionate.” Verse 28 – Reverence for God and Authorities Blasphemy of God or cursing rulers was forbidden. Verses 29–30 – Firstfruits and Firstborn Grain, wine, and firstborn sons and animals belonged to God. Livestock were given after eight days with their mothers. Verse 31 – Holy Separation Israel was to be distinct, even in diet: meat torn by wild beasts was off-limits and fit only for dogs. This chapter elaborates on a diverse range of laws God set before the Israelites, emphasizing restitution for theft and damage, protecting the vulnerable, fairness in financial transactions, and reverence for God and leaders. Through these ordinances, God outlines the values that should govern moral responsibility and societal harmony. Historical Context Exodus 22 sits in the “Book of the Covenant” (Exodus 20:22–23:33), a body of civil and moral statutes revealed at Sinai shortly after the Ten Commandments. Many ancient Near Eastern law codes existed, yet this collection uniquely roots justice in God’s character rather than in royal decree (Exodus 22:27). Legal Principles and Restitution 1. Restoring more than was taken discouraged theft and protected victims (compare Leviticus 6:1-5; Luke 19:8). 2. Theft sold a man into servitude only as a last resort (v 3), preserving dignity while correcting wrongs. 3. Double payment (vv 4, 7, 9) balanced deterrence with mercy—stricter than Babylonian codes in value but kinder than mutilation practiced elsewhere. Human Dignity and Social Justice God’s law guards private property (vv 1-15), sexual purity (vv 16-17), and vulnerable lives (vv 21-24). Each area reflects the image of God in people (Genesis 1:27) and echoes Jesus’ warning against harming “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40). Sexual Morality in Ancient Israel The virgin’s honor and economic future were bound together. Paying the bride-price acknowledged damage done to the family. Deuteronomy 22:28-29 parallels the rule, but Exodus allows the father veto power—underscoring parental authority and a woman’s protection. Worship Integrity and Spiritual Warfare Sorcery (v 18) was viewed as rebellion (1 Samuel 15:23). Bestiality (v 19) and idolatry (v 20) twisted creation’s order (Romans 1:23-27). The death penalty erased these corruptions before they infected the nation (Deuteronomy 18:9-14; Acts 19:19). Foreigners, Widows, Orphans: God’s Heart Israel once suffered as immigrants in Egypt (Exodus 1:11-14). Remembering that pain, they must not repeat it (v 21). God promises to personally avenge any mistreatment (vv 23-24), a theme later echoed in Proverbs 23:10-11; James 1:27. Economic Ethics: Lending and Collateral No interest loans (v 25) prevented exploitation, anticipating the teaching that love “does no wrong to a neighbor” (Romans 13:10). Returning a cloak by sundown respected human need over financial security (Deuteronomy 24:12-13). Modern parallels include fair lending and compassionate debt relief. Authority, Oaths, and Speech To “curse the ruler” (v 28) dishonors God’s established order (Romans 13:1-7; Acts 23:5). Oaths invoked in verses 10-11 were sworn “before the LORD,” making truth-telling a sacred act (Matthew 5:33-37). Firstborn and Firstfruits: Covenant Markers Offering the first yields to God’s ownership of all (Proverbs 3:9). The firstborn son was redeemed (Exodus 13:13), pointing ahead to Jesus, “the firstborn over all creation” (Colossians 1:15) and the Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7). Holiness and Diet Refusing carcasses (v 31) protected health and symbolized separation from death and impurity (Leviticus 11:39-40). Peter’s vision in Acts 10 later broadens dietary rules yet retains the call to be “a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9). Archaeological Insights Clay tablets from Mari and Nuzi record similar livestock restitution, confirming the practicality of Exodus 22 in its era. Excavated storehouses at Hazor show how grain could be collateral or victim in accidental fires (v 6). Findings of household idols highlight why verse 20 warns against local cultic sacrifices. Connections Across Scripture • Restitution: Numbers 5:5-7; Zac 5:3–4 • Care for strangers: Leviticus 19:33-34; Hebrews 13:2 • No interest: Nehemiah 5:7-11 • Judgment on sorcery: Micah 5:12; Revelation 21:8 • Respect for leaders: Ecclesiastes 10:20; 1 Timothy 2:1-2 Christological Fulfillment and New Testament Echoes Jesus fulfills the law’s fairness by becoming ultimate restitution—paying a debt humanity could not (2 Corinthians 5:21). His care for the marginalized (Luke 7:11-15) mirrors verses 21-24. At Calvary, He tasted the judgment deserved by blasphemers and idolaters (v 20), providing forgiveness to any who trust Him (Acts 13:38-39). Modern Application • Repay wrongs promptly and generously. • Maintain clear boundaries with others’ property, money, and relationships. • Stand up for immigrants, widows, orphans, and victims of abuse. • Reject occult practices and entertainment that glamorizes them. • Honor leaders with respectful speech while pursuing justice. • Give God the “first” of income, time, and talents, celebrating His ownership of everything. Connections to Additional Scriptures Restitution and Justice Leviticus 6:1-7; Luke 19:8-9 Protection of Property Proverbs 3:29-30; Romans 13:8-10 Social Responsibility James 1:27; Matthew 25:35-40 Honesty and Integrity Proverbs 12:22; Ephesians 4:25 Sanctity of Life and Respect for Authority Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17 Teaching Points Restitution and Justice Exodus 22:1-4 outlines the principles of restitution, emphasizing that those who steal must repay multiple times over. This underscores the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and making amends. Protection of Property Verses 5-6 discuss the responsibility of individuals to prevent damage to others' property, highlighting the value of respecting others' belongings. Social Responsibility Verses 21-24 remind us of God's concern for the vulnerable, such as foreigners, widows, and orphans. God warns against mistreating them, showing His heart for justice and mercy. Honesty and Integrity The chapter also addresses issues of honesty in verses 7-13, where disputes over property and trust are resolved through fair judgment. Sanctity of Life and Respect for Authority Verses 18-20 and 28-31 emphasize the sanctity of life and the importance of respecting God's authority and the leaders He appoints. Practical Applications Practice Restitution When wronged or when we wrong others, seek to make amends and restore relationships, reflecting God's justice and mercy. Respect Others' Property Be mindful of how our actions affect others' possessions and strive to act with integrity and respect. Advocate for the Vulnerable Stand up for those who are marginalized or oppressed, following God's command to protect and care for them. Live with Integrity Uphold honesty in all dealings, ensuring that our words and actions align with God's truth. Honor Authority Respect and pray for those in positions of authority, recognizing their role in maintaining order and justice. People 1. Thief The chapter begins with laws concerning a thief. If a thief is caught breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there is no bloodguilt for the defender (Exodus 22:2). The Hebrew word used here is "גַּנָּב" (ganav), meaning thief or robber. 2. Owner The owner of the property or livestock is mentioned in various contexts, such as when a thief is caught and must make restitution, or when an animal is borrowed and harmed (Exodus 22:3, 14). The Hebrew word for owner is "בַּעַל" (ba'al), which can mean master or possessor. 3. Neighbor The text refers to a neighbor in the context of borrowing or safekeeping property (Exodus 22:7, 10, 14). The Hebrew term "רֵעַ" (rea) is used, meaning friend or companion. 4. Judge Judges are mentioned as those who arbitrate disputes, particularly when there is a question of guilt or innocence regarding stolen property (Exodus 22:8-9). The Hebrew word is "שֹׁפֵט" (shofet), meaning judge or ruler. 5. Borrower A borrower is mentioned in the context of borrowing an animal, and the responsibilities that come with it (Exodus 22:14). The Hebrew root "שָׁאַל" (sha'al) is used, meaning to ask or borrow. 6. Sorceress The text explicitly states that a sorceress must not be allowed to live (Exodus 22:18). The Hebrew word is "מְכַשֵּׁפָה" (mekhashephah), referring to a female practitioner of witchcraft. 7. Man In the context of bestiality, the text states that a man who lies with an animal must be put to death (Exodus 22:19). The Hebrew word used is "אִישׁ" (ish), meaning man or husband. 8. Foreigner The chapter includes laws about not oppressing a foreigner, as the Israelites were once foreigners in Egypt (Exodus 22:21). The Hebrew term is "גֵּר" (ger), meaning sojourner or alien. 9. Widow and Orphan The text commands not to mistreat widows or orphans, emphasizing God's protection over them (Exodus 22:22). The Hebrew words are "אַלְמָנָה" (almanah) for widow and "יָתוֹם" (yatom) for orphan. 10. God While not a person in the human sense, God is referenced as the ultimate authority and enforcer of these laws, emphasizing His justice and care for the vulnerable (Exodus 22:23-24). Places Exodus 22 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places by name. Instead, it focuses on various laws and regulations given to the Israelites. These laws cover topics such as property rights, restitution, social justice, and moral behavior. Since there are no specific places mentioned in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. If you have any other questions or need further information on a different topic, feel free to ask! Events 1. Restitution for Theft (Exodus 22:1-4) The chapter begins with laws regarding theft. If a man steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters or sells it, he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep. If the stolen animal is found alive in his possession, he must pay double. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "shalam," meaning to make whole or restore. 2. Self-Defense and Burglary (Exodus 22:2-3) If a thief is caught breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there is no bloodguilt for the defender. However, if it happens after sunrise, there is bloodguilt. This distinction emphasizes the value of life and the importance of intent and timing in self-defense situations. 3. Restitution for Grazing and Fire Damage (Exodus 22:5-6) If a man lets his livestock graze in another's field or vineyard, he must make restitution from the best of his own field or vineyard. Similarly, if a fire spreads and causes damage, the one who started the fire must make restitution. This underscores the principle of responsibility for one's actions. 4. Custodianship and Trust (Exodus 22:7-13) Laws are given regarding items left in trust with a neighbor. If the item is stolen, the thief must pay double if caught. If not, the neighbor must take an oath before God to affirm innocence. This section highlights the Hebrew concept of "shamar," meaning to guard or keep. 5. Borrowed Items and Liability (Exodus 22:14-15) If a man borrows an animal and it is injured or dies in the absence of the owner, he must make restitution. If the owner is present, no restitution is required. This law emphasizes the importance of accountability and fairness in borrowing. 6. Moral and Social Laws (Exodus 22:16-20) Various moral laws are outlined, including the requirement for a man who seduces a virgin to pay the bride price and marry her, unless the father refuses. Additionally, sorcery, bestiality, and idolatry are strictly prohibited, reflecting the Hebrew emphasis on holiness and purity. 7. Protection of the Vulnerable (Exodus 22:21-24) The Israelites are commanded not to mistreat foreigners, widows, or orphans. If they do, God promises to hear their cries and respond with anger. This section underscores the Hebrew value of "chesed," or loving-kindness. 8. Lending and Interest (Exodus 22:25-27) When lending money to the poor, Israelites are instructed not to charge interest or take a cloak as a pledge overnight. This law reflects the importance of compassion and mercy in financial dealings. 9. Respect for Authority and Offerings (Exodus 22:28-31) The chapter concludes with commands to respect God and leaders, not to delay offerings, and to consecrate the firstborn sons and animals. The Israelites are reminded to be holy, as they are set apart for God. Lessons from Exodus 22 1. Respect for Property and Restitution Exodus 22 teaches us the importance of respecting others' property and making restitution when wrongs are committed. "If a man steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters or sells it, he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep" (Exodus 22:1). This principle underscores the value of integrity and accountability in our interactions. It reminds us that our actions have consequences and that making amends is a vital part of living a life that honors God and respects our neighbors. 2. The Sanctity of Life The chapter emphasizes the sanctity of life, even in situations of self-defense. "If a thief is caught breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no bloodguilt for him" (Exodus 22:2). However, if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed. This distinction highlights the value God places on life and the importance of discernment and justice in our actions. 3. Responsibility for Others' Property Exodus 22 also teaches us about the responsibility we have for others' belongings. "If a man gives his neighbor money or goods for safekeeping and they are stolen from the neighbor’s house, the thief, if caught, must pay back double" (Exodus 22:7). This principle encourages us to be trustworthy stewards of what is entrusted to us, reflecting God's faithfulness in our own lives. 4. Fairness in Lending The chapter provides guidance on lending practices, emphasizing fairness and compassion. "If you lend money to one of My people among you who is poor, you must not be like a moneylender to him; you must not charge him interest" (Exodus 22:25). This lesson calls us to act with kindness and generosity, especially towards those in need, reflecting the love and grace of Christ. 5. Respect for Authority Exodus 22 reminds us to respect authority and those in leadership. "You must not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people" (Exodus 22:28). This teaches us to honor those God has placed in positions of authority, recognizing that all authority ultimately comes from Him. 6. The Importance of Keeping Promises The chapter underscores the importance of keeping our promises and fulfilling our vows. "You must not delay the offering from your harvest and your vintage" (Exodus 22:29). This principle encourages us to be people of our word, reflecting God's faithfulness and reliability in our own lives. 7. Compassion for the Vulnerable Exodus 22 highlights God's heart for the vulnerable, instructing us to care for widows and orphans. "You must not mistreat any widow or orphan" (Exodus 22:22). This lesson calls us to extend compassion and support to those who are most in need, embodying the love and mercy of Christ. 8. The Call to Holiness The chapter calls us to live lives set apart for God. "You are to be My holy people" (Exodus 22:31). This reminder encourages us to pursue holiness in our daily lives, striving to reflect God's character in all that we do. 9. The Principle of Restitution Exodus 22 reinforces the principle of restitution, teaching us to make things right when we have wronged others. "If a man grazes his livestock in a field or vineyard and lets them stray so that they graze in someone else’s field, he must make restitution from the best of his own field or vineyard" (Exodus 22:5). This lesson encourages us to take responsibility for our actions and seek reconciliation. 10. Trust in God's Justice Finally, Exodus 22 reminds us to trust in God's justice. "If the stolen property is found alive in his possession—whether ox or donkey or sheep—he must pay back double" (Exodus 22:4). This principle reassures us that God sees all and will bring about justice in His perfect timing, allowing us to rest in His sovereignty and righteousness. Topics 1. Laws about Theft (Exodus 22:1-4) This section outlines the restitution required for theft. If a man steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters or sells it, he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep. The Hebrew word for "restitution" (שָׁלַם, shalam) implies making peace or restoring what was lost. 2. Laws about Property Damage (Exodus 22:5-6) These verses address compensation for damage caused by grazing animals or fire. If a man lets his livestock graze in another's field, he must make restitution from the best of his own field. 3. Laws about Safekeeping (Exodus 22:7-13) This section deals with items given for safekeeping. If an item is stolen, the thief must pay double. If the thief is not found, the owner of the house must appear before the judges to determine if he has taken the neighbor's property. 4. Laws about Borrowing and Lending (Exodus 22:14-15) These laws cover the responsibility of someone who borrows an animal. If the animal is injured or dies while not under the owner's supervision, the borrower must make restitution. 5. Laws about Seduction (Exodus 22:16-17) If a man seduces a virgin who is not pledged to be married, he must pay the bride price and marry her. If her father refuses, the man must still pay the bride price. 6. Prohibitions against Sorcery and Bestiality (Exodus 22:18-19) These verses strictly prohibit sorcery and bestiality, with the penalty being death. The Hebrew term for sorceress (מְכַשֵּׁפָה, mekhashephah) refers to one who practices witchcraft. 7. Laws about Idolatry and Sacrifices (Exodus 22:20) Anyone who sacrifices to any god other than the LORD must be destroyed. This underscores the exclusivity of worship due to Yahweh. 8. Laws about Treatment of Foreigners, Widows, and Orphans (Exodus 22:21-24) The Israelites are commanded not to mistreat or oppress foreigners, as they were once foreigners in Egypt. Widows and orphans are also to be protected, with severe consequences for mistreatment. 9. Laws about Lending and Interest (Exodus 22:25-27) These laws prohibit charging interest to fellow Israelites and require the return of a neighbor's cloak taken as a pledge before sunset, emphasizing compassion and justice. 10. Respect for God and Leaders (Exodus 22:28) This verse commands respect for God and the leaders of the people, using the Hebrew term for "curse" (קָלַל, qalal), which means to treat lightly or with contempt. 11. Laws about Offerings and Firstborn (Exodus 22:29-30) The Israelites are instructed to give the firstfruits of their harvest and the firstborn of their sons and livestock to God, signifying dedication and gratitude. 12. Call to Holiness (Exodus 22:31) The chapter concludes with a call for the Israelites to be holy and not to eat meat torn by wild animals, symbolizing purity and separation from defilement. Themes 1. Restitution for Theft The chapter begins with laws concerning theft and the requirement for restitution. If a man steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters or sells it, he must repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep (Exodus 22:1). This theme emphasizes justice and the importance of making amends for wrongdoing. 2. Self-Defense and Property Protection The passage addresses scenarios involving self-defense and the protection of property. If a thief is caught breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there is no bloodguilt (Exodus 22:2). This highlights the value of life and property, and the right to defend them. 3. Liability for Property Damage The text outlines responsibilities when one person's actions lead to the loss or damage of another's property. For example, if livestock graze in another's field, restitution must be made from the best of the offender's field (Exodus 22:5). This underscores accountability and fairness in community relations. 4. Trust and Responsibility in Safekeeping Laws regarding items left in safekeeping are detailed, emphasizing trust and responsibility. If an item is stolen from a neighbor's house, the thief, if found, must pay double (Exodus 22:7). This theme reflects the importance of integrity and trustworthiness. 5. Moral and Social Conduct The chapter includes laws on moral and social conduct, such as prohibitions against sorcery, bestiality, and idolatry (Exodus 22:18-20). These laws highlight the call to holiness and the rejection of practices contrary to God's will. 6. Protection of the Vulnerable There are specific commands to protect the vulnerable, including foreigners, widows, and orphans. God warns against mistreating them, stating that He will hear their cries and respond with anger (Exodus 22:21-24). This theme emphasizes compassion and justice for the marginalized. 7. Fair Lending Practices The text addresses fair lending practices, prohibiting the charging of interest to fellow Israelites and ensuring the return of a neighbor's cloak taken as a pledge before sunset (Exodus 22:25-27). This reflects God's concern for mercy and fairness in economic dealings. 8. Respect for Authority and Offerings The chapter concludes with commands to respect authority and to offer the firstfruits and firstborn to God (Exodus 22:28-30). This theme underscores the importance of honoring God and those He has placed in positions of leadership. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that seeks justice and is quick to make restitution when necessary. Ask God for wisdom and integrity in respecting others' property and rights. Intercede for the vulnerable in society, that they may receive protection and justice. Seek God's guidance in living a life of honesty and integrity. Pray for those in authority, that they may lead with wisdom and righteousness. As we study Exodus 22, may we be inspired to live out these principles in our daily lives, reflecting God's justice, mercy, and love to the world around us. Answering Tough Questions 1. Exodus 22:18: How can the command “Do not allow a sorceress to live” be reconciled with modern standards of religious freedom and human rights? 2. Exodus 22:20: Why does the text mandate destruction for those worshipping other gods, despite broader biblical themes of free will and choice? 3. Exodus 22:2–3: Is there evidence outside the Bible supporting or questioning the practice of killing a thief at night but not during the day? 4. Exodus 22:16–17: How does requiring the seducer to marry or pay for the virgin align with modern concepts of consent and women’s autonomy? 5. Exodus 22:29–30: Is there archaeological or historical evidence that supports the command to dedicate the firstborn, and does it conflict with other biblical instructions? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the laws on theft and restitution reflect God's value of justice? 2. What do the laws regarding property damage reveal about personal responsibility? 3. How do the laws concerning the protection of virgins reflect God's concern for the dignity and worth of individuals? 4. In what ways do the laws against sorcery, bestiality, and idolatry demonstrate God's demand for purity? 5. How do the laws about protecting foreigners, widows, and orphans challenge societal norms of the time? 6. What principles of fairness and compassion can we glean from the laws on lending and borrowing? 7. How can the law regarding not charging interest to a poor person inform our economic practices today? 8. Why does God demand respect for leaders and prohibition of blasphemy? 9. How do the laws about offering the firstborn sons, cattle, and sheep emphasize the importance of sacrifice and dedication to God? 10. What does the law against eating the meat of a mauled animal signify about God's expectations for his holy people? 11. How might the law on handling an animal borrowed from a neighbor inform our responsibilities in modern-day situations of borrowing or lending? 12. How can the laws concerning stolen goods found in the possession of a thief apply to current laws and regulations? 13. How might the laws protecting the rights of a virgin woman speak to our contemporary understanding of consent and respect in relationships? 14. What do the laws about restitution teach us about repairing harm in our own communities today? 15. How do the provisions for widows and orphans reflect God's care for the vulnerable, and how can we apply this principle in our society? 16. How can the laws regarding lending without interest to the poor shape our understanding of economic justice today? 17. How do the laws concerning the treatment of foreign residents challenge our attitudes toward immigrants and refugees today? 18. Why is there such a severe penalty for idolatry and how does this relate to our worship practices today? 19. How does the command not to blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people influence our speech and attitudes towards authorities today? 20. How does the prohibition of eating the meat of a mauled animal relate to issues of food ethics and health in contemporary society? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions