The laws concerning personal injury in the Bible are primarily found in the Old Testament, particularly within the Mosaic Law. These laws were given to the Israelites to maintain justice and order within the community, reflecting God's holiness and righteousness. They emphasize the value of human life, the importance of personal responsibility, and the need for restitution when harm is done.

Exodus 21:12-36
This passage is one of the most comprehensive sections dealing with personal injury. It outlines various scenarios and the corresponding legal responses:

· Intentional Homicide: "Whoever strikes and kills a man must surely be put to death" (Exodus 21:12). This law underscores the sanctity of human life and the severe consequences of murder.

· Unintentional Killing: Provision is made for those who kill unintentionally, allowing them to flee to a designated city of refuge (Exodus 21:13). This reflects a distinction between premeditated murder and accidental death.

· Assault and Battery: If a person injures another, the assailant must compensate the victim for lost time and ensure they are fully healed (Exodus 21:18-19). This law emphasizes restitution and the responsibility to make amends.

· Slave Injuries: The law also addresses injuries to slaves, stating that if a slave is permanently injured, they must be set free as compensation (Exodus 21:26-27). This provision highlights the inherent value of every individual, regardless of social status.

· Animal-Related Injuries: If an ox gores a person to death, the ox must be stoned, and its owner may face consequences if negligence is proven (Exodus 21:28-29). This law extends the principle of responsibility to the actions of one's property.

Leviticus 24:17-22
This passage reiterates the principle of "an eye for an eye," known as lex talionis, which serves as a guideline for proportional justice: "fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth" (Leviticus 24:20). This principle was intended to limit retribution and ensure that punishment was commensurate with the offense.

Deuteronomy 19:4-13
Further elaboration on cities of refuge is provided, emphasizing the protection of those who commit manslaughter unintentionally. The passage also warns against the abuse of this provision by those guilty of premeditated murder.

Theological Implications
The laws concerning personal injury reflect the biblical themes of justice, mercy, and the value of human life. They demonstrate God's concern for both the victim and the perpetrator, ensuring that justice is served while also providing avenues for mercy and redemption. These laws also foreshadow the ultimate justice and mercy found in Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and offers forgiveness and restoration to all who believe.

New Testament Context
While the New Testament does not provide a detailed legal code like the Old Testament, it upholds the principles of justice and mercy. Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, particularly in Matthew 5:38-42, call believers to transcend the letter of the law by responding to injury with love and forgiveness, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel.

In summary, the biblical laws concerning personal injury serve as a foundation for understanding justice and responsibility in human relationships, pointing ultimately to the redemptive work of Christ.