For all manner of trespass, whether it be for ox, for ass, for sheep, for raiment, or for any manner of lost thing, which another challengeth to be his, the cause of both parties shall come before the judges; and whom the judges shall condemn, he shall pay double unto his neighbour.
For any kind of wrongdoing or dispute, whether it involves an ox, donkey, sheep, clothing, or any lost item that someone claims belongs to them, both parties must bring their case before the judges. Whoever the judges find guilty must pay back double the amount to their neighbor.
This verse establishes that when people have disputes over property or possessions, they should bring their case to judges who will decide fairly, and the guilty party must pay back twice what they owe.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Exodus, God gave the Israelites a comprehensive set of laws through Moses as they journeyed from Egypt to establish a just society in the Promised Land. This verse is part of the Covenant Code, which addressed everyday legal matters like property disputes to promote fairness and deter theft in a community that relied on livestock and goods for survival. It reflects the ancient Israelite emphasis on communal justice, where judges acted as impartial arbiters under God's authority.
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