Matthew Henry's Complete Bible Commentary

Exodus 21

The laws recorded in this chapter relate to the fifth and sixth commandments; and though they are not accommodated to our constitution, especially in point of servitude, nor are the penalties annexed binding on us, yet they are of great use for the explanation of the moral law, and the rules of natural justice. Here are several enlargements, I. Upon the fifth commandment, which concerns particular relations. 1. The duty of masters towards their servants, their men-servants (Exodus 21:2-21:6), and the maidservants, Exodus 21:7-21:11. 2. The punishment of disobedient children that strike their parents (Exodus 21:15), or curse them, Exodus 21:17. II. Upon the sixth commandment, which forbids all violence offered to the person of a man. Here is, 1. Concerning murder, Exodus 21:12-21:14. 2. Man-stealing, Exodus 21:16. 3. Assault and battery, Exodus 21:18, 21:19. 4. Correcting a servant, Exodus 21:20, 21:21. 5. Hurting a woman with child, Exodus 21:22, 21:23. 6. The law of retaliation, Exodus 21:24, 21:25. 7. Maiming a servant, Exodus 21:26. 8. An ox goring, Exodus 21:28-21:32. 9. Damage by opening a pit, Exodus 21:33, 21:34. 10. Cattle fighting, Exodus 21:35, 21:36. MHBCC 72.1