thinking bible.
Explore Ask another

You asked

what social structures in ancient israel made this law particularly necessary or challenging?

PlainDeeperStudy

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Exodus 23:6

““You shall not deny justice to your poor in their lawsuit.””

This verse is part of a larger collection of laws given by God to Moses for the people of Israel, shortly after their exodus from Egypt. These laws cover various aspects of daily life, worship, and social justice, forming the foundational covenant for their community.

What systems exist today that might unintentionally or intentionally deny justice to the poor?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Deuteronomy 16:19

    Warns judges not to show partiality or take bribes, especially when dealing with the poor.

  • Isaiah 10:1-2

    Laments those who write unjust laws that oppress the poor and deny them rights.

  • James 2:1-4

    Critiques showing favoritism to the rich in community gatherings, paralleling the denial of justice.

Ask your own follow-up