Exodus 21:1 - “Now these are the ordinances which you shall set before them.
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What does "Exodus 21:1" mean?
This verse from Exodus 21:1 is a crucial opening statement that sets the stage for a lengthy and detailed code of laws that God is about to reveal to the Israelites. Let's break down its meaning:
"Now": This word connects the legal code presented in chapter 21 to the preceding chapters, which include the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20). It suggests that these ordinances are a continuation of the covenant relationship established between God and the Israelites.
"These are the ordinances": The word "ordinances" (Hebrew: mishpatim) refers to specific rules, regulations, judgments, or legal decisions. These are not just general principles like the Ten Commandments, but practical laws governing various aspects of daily life. Think of them as case laws, or precedents, derived from the principles of justice.
"Which you shall set before them": This means that Moses is instructed to present these ordinances to the Israelites. He is to make them known, explain them, and ensure that the people understand and abide by them. The phrase "set before them" suggests a formal presentation, intended to establish these rules as the standard for their society.
In essence, the verse is a divine instruction to Moses to present the Israelites with a set of laws governing their social and communal life. These laws are not just suggestions, but divinely ordained rules that the Israelites are expected to follow as part of their covenant with God. They cover a wide range of topics, including slavery, personal injury, property rights, and responsibilities. The purpose is to establish justice, order, and a righteous society among the Israelites.
Exodus 21:1 - “Now these are the ordinances which you shall set before them.
What does "Exodus 21:1" mean?
This verse from Exodus 21:1 is a crucial opening statement that sets the stage for a lengthy and detailed code of laws that God is about to reveal to the Israelites. Let's break down its meaning:
"Now": This word connects the legal code presented in chapter 21 to the preceding chapters, which include the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20). It suggests that these ordinances are a continuation of the covenant relationship established between God and the Israelites.
"These are the ordinances": The word "ordinances" (Hebrew: mishpatim) refers to specific rules, regulations, judgments, or legal decisions. These are not just general principles like the Ten Commandments, but practical laws governing various aspects of daily life. Think of them as case laws, or precedents, derived from the principles of justice.
"Which you shall set before them": This means that Moses is instructed to present these ordinances to the Israelites. He is to make them known, explain them, and ensure that the people understand and abide by them. The phrase "set before them" suggests a formal presentation, intended to establish these rules as the standard for their society.
In essence, the verse is a divine instruction to Moses to present the Israelites with a set of laws governing their social and communal life. These laws are not just suggestions, but divinely ordained rules that the Israelites are expected to follow as part of their covenant with God. They cover a wide range of topics, including slavery, personal injury, property rights, and responsibilities. The purpose is to establish justice, order, and a righteous society among the Israelites.