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Exodus 22:10

If a man deliver unto his neighbour an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driven away, no man seeing it:

Exodus 22:10 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse you are referring to discusses the situation where a person entrusts their animal to their neighbor for safekeeping, and the animal dies, gets injured, or goes missing without anyone witnessing what happened. In this case, according to the context of the verse, the neighbor is not automatically held responsible for the loss or damages to the animal since there were no witnesses to determine the cause of its fate. This emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in relationships and dealings between individuals, even in situations where accidents or unexpected events occur. It highlights the need for trust and goodwill in interactions among people, while also recognizing the challenges of proving responsibility when events are not witnessed. This verse encourages individuals to exercise caution and responsibility when entrusted with the possessions of others, while also recognizing that unforeseen circumstances can sometimes occur beyond one's control.

Theological Overview

In the verse in question, the scenario outlined deals with the responsibility one has when entrusted with the care of another person's property. The theological interpretation of this verse centers around the concepts of trust, stewardship, and accountability within the community. It reflects the importance of honesty and integrity in all dealings and emphasizes the need for individuals to act responsibly when placed in positions of trust. This verse also highlights the importance of caring for others' possessions as if they were one's own and the consequences of failing to do so. Furthermore, the mention of "no man seeing it" serves as a reminder that even when actions go unnoticed by others, there is still a higher power who sees all and holds individuals accountable for their actions. In summary, this verse teaches us about the values of trustworthiness, proper stewardship, and the importance of integrity in all aspects of our lives.

Exodus 22:10 in other translations

American Standard Version

If a man deliver unto his neighbor an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driven away, no man seeing it:

World English Bible

“If a man delivers to his neighbor a donkey, an ox, a sheep, or any animal to keep, and it dies or is injured, or driven away, no man seeing it;

Douay-Rheims

If a man deliver ass, ox, sheep, or any beast, to his neighbour's custody, and it die, or be hurt, or be taken by enemies, and no man saw it:

Geneva Bible (1599)

If a man deliuer vnto his neighbour to keepe asse, or oxe, or sheepe, or any beast, and it die, or be hurt, or taken away by enemies, and no man see it,