1. Laws regarding servants (1-11; 20-21;26-27)

Slavery was a part of Hebrew society, for it was a part of the culture of the ancient world. In most nations, a slave had no rights; he was at the mercy of his master. But God's laws protected the rights of slaves. It also taught that the basic rights of women, even slave women were to be respected. His law set a new direction; it lighted a candle in a dark world.

2. Personal injuries (12-36)

It is always hard to strike a balance between the rights of the injured and the rights of those who cause the injury. God's law set a standard for justice. The 'eye for an eye' principle was given to make irresponsible people responsible for their actions. God's justice does not allow personal vengeance or retaliation.

Application: Lord, help me to have a sense of justice so that I may know the value of forgiveness. Teach me to be responsible for my influence on others.
One Word: Justice and responsibility