If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman’s husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine.
If men are fighting and accidentally injure a pregnant woman, causing her to give birth prematurely, but no serious harm comes to the woman or baby, the man who caused this must still be punished. The woman's husband will decide what penalty to demand, and the judges will determine the final payment.
This verse establishes that even accidental harm to a pregnant woman during a fight requires compensation, showing God's protection for both mothers and unborn children.
📚 Historical Context
This law was given to Moses as part of the civil and criminal code for the newly formed nation of Israel after their exodus from Egypt. In the ancient Near East, detailed legal codes were essential for maintaining order in society, and this particular law addressed scenarios of accidental injury during disputes. The involvement of both the husband and judges reflects the legal process where family members could seek justice, but final decisions rested with appointed judicial authorities.
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