NOTES for Exo 21:1-26

Before us is a criminal code. Even now it is much more liberal and merciful than the existing laws of many countries. Manslaughter is not punished by death, and vengeance may not assert a claim against an accidental killer. The guilty person can count on refuge and on paying a fine. The existing rule of multiplying punishment has been abolished. The further we advance in studying the Law of the Old Testament, the more often we encounter the command to forgive the person who has caused harm. Only deliberate murder is punishable by death. According to historical sources, penalties for the remaining offences were gradually reduced to payment of compensation.