Exodus 22:9
Arabic SAB (الكتاب الشريف)
كُلُّ قَضِيَّةٍ تَتَعَلَّقُ بِأَمْلَاكٍ مُتَنَازَعٍ عَلَيْهَا، مِثْلِ ثَوْرٍ أَوْ حِمَارٍ أَوْ خَرُوفٍ أَوْ ثَوْبٍ أَوْ شَيْءٍ مَفْقُودٍ، فَيَقُولُ أَحَدُهُمْ: ’هَذَا لِي‘ وَالْآخَرُ: ’هَذَا لِي.‘ فِي هَذِهِ الْحَالَةِ، يَأْتِي الطَّرَفَانِ الْمُتَنَازِعَانِ إِلَى الْقُضَاةِ، وَمَنْ يَحْكُمُ الْقُضَاةُ عَلَيْهِ بِأَنَّهُ مُذْنِبٌ، يُعَوِّضُ الْآخَرَ الضِّعْفَ.
What Does This Mean?
Exodus 22:9 says that if someone is accused of having something that belongs to another person, the case should be judged by judges. Whoever is found guilty must pay back double what was taken. This was a rule given to the Israelites to ensure fairness and justice.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you found a toy and your friend said it was theirs. Instead of just fighting about it, you both take it to a teacher. If the teacher decides the toy is really your friend's, you'd have to give them two toys as a way to say sorry.
Historical Background
This verse is part of the book of Exodus, written around the 13th century BCE by Moses. It was given to the Israelites as part of their legal code, reflecting the cultural norms and societal values of that time.
Living It Out Today
Today, this verse can be applied to a situation where someone is accused of stealing or taking something that isn't theirs. If proven guilty, they should make it right not only by returning the item but also by offering compensation, showing they understand the gravity of their actions.
Topics
justicefairnessresponsibilityrestitutioncommunity standardslegal codes
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'double' mean in this context?
'Double' means the guilty party must repay twice what they took. This serves as both restitution and a deterrent against future wrongdoing.
Can this principle apply to non-material losses?
While this verse specifically mentions material items, the principle can be applied to non-material losses as well, by making appropriate restitution or offering compensation.
How does this verse relate to modern legal systems?
This verse reflects a principle of justice and restitution that is echoed in many modern legal systems, where compensation may be ordered beyond just returning the stolen item.
What does this verse teach about accountability?
This verse teaches that everyone is accountable for their actions. If someone is found guilty of taking something that isn't theirs, they must face the consequences and make it right.