In the biblical context, the concept of an injured person encompasses both physical and emotional harm. The Scriptures provide guidance on how to treat those who are injured, emphasizing compassion, justice, and restoration.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament law contains specific instructions regarding the treatment of injured individuals. In Exodus 21:18-19 , the law addresses physical injury: "If men quarrel and one strikes the other with a stone or his fist, and he does not die but is confined to bed, then the one who struck him shall go unpunished; he must pay for the injured man’s lost time and see that he is completely healed." This passage highlights the principle of restitution and care for the injured, ensuring that the victim is compensated and restored to health.

The concept of justice for the injured is further reinforced in the principle of "an eye for an eye" found in Exodus 21:24 : "eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot." This law was intended to limit retribution and ensure that the punishment matched the injury, promoting fairness and preventing excessive vengeance.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, Jesus expands on the treatment of the injured by emphasizing mercy and love. In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37), Jesus illustrates the importance of compassion for those who are hurt. The Samaritan, upon seeing the injured man, "had compassion on him" (Luke 10:33) and took action to care for his wounds, demonstrating that love for one's neighbor transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the treatment of the injured in his letters. In Galatians 6:2 , he writes, "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This exhortation encourages believers to support and care for those who are suffering, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ.

Spiritual and Emotional Injury

The Bible also acknowledges emotional and spiritual injuries. Psalm 147:3 declares, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." This verse speaks to God's role as a healer of both physical and emotional pain, offering comfort and restoration to those who are hurting.

In Matthew 11:28 , Jesus invites those who are burdened to find rest in Him: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." This invitation underscores the spiritual healing available through a relationship with Christ, who provides solace and peace to the injured soul.

Community Responsibility

The biblical narrative consistently emphasizes the responsibility of the community to care for the injured. In James 5:14-15 , the church is instructed to pray for the sick: "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick." This passage highlights the communal aspect of healing, where the faith community plays a vital role in supporting and restoring the injured.

Throughout Scripture, the treatment of the injured is a reflection of God's justice, mercy, and love. Believers are called to emulate these attributes, providing care and support to those who are physically, emotionally, or spiritually wounded.