Ox for an Ox

Reading:   Exodus 21

There is an interesting concept put into play in this chapter.  The idea that it isn't the individual that deserves retribution for wrongdoing but the abused portion of the individual...

EXODUS 21:26-27

26 And if a man smite the eye of his servant, or the eye of his maid, that it perish; he shall let him go free for his eye's sake. 

27 And if he smite out his manservant's tooth, or his maidservant's tooth; he shall let him go free for his tooth's sake. 

For the sake of an eye or a tooth, not for the sake of the wronged person - hmmm?  Anyway, chapter twenty-one contains very precise instruction on how to handle servants (how long etc.) and other questions in regards to personal property; but the pinnacle moment comes in verse 17...

EXODUS 21:17

17 And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death. 

There you have it...curse me not children or you shall surely reap the inglorious benefit of retirement from your tabernacle of clay!

~Kpling