Exodus 21:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

This section begins with the guidance that states, "when they quarrel." This refers to a situation of a shared conflict where no serious harm or death occurs, merely resulting in a cessation of work. In instances of injury, it seems that the established laws would be invoked: "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" (v. 24). The intention of this legislation was clearly to curb the animalistic displays of anger and to encourage individuals to seek resolution through the legal system.