Exodus 21:22Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

If two husbands engage in a dispute and unjustly harm their wife, and if she does not die, meaning that the child has not yet been fully developed and its parts have not yet formed correctly, then the one at fault must bear the consequences.

Moses cautions that if a woman with child is struck during a conflict, it can result in her losing the child, as noted in Exodus 21:22. Thus, a wise spouse strives to avoid strife and fosters harmony, ensuring she can be comfortably relieved of her burden, rather than carrying it for an extended period. The coming forth of the Word relies not merely on the passage of time but on the commitment and effort put forth.

What does it signify when the child is portrayed? It is understood that when a fetus is fully developed within the womb, it becomes animated. Just as the Creator initially shaped Adam’s body before breathing life into him. Thus, the lawgiver states that if a woman, who is pregnant, suffers a miscarriage during a conflict and delivers a fully formed child, this act shall be regarded as murder, and the one responsible will face punishment equivalent to that of a murderer. Conversely, if the child is not yet fully formed, it is not to be regarded as murder since the child has not yet received animation; nevertheless, the responsible individual shall incur a penalty.

This location is quite dimly lit: it is believed that it represents a scenario in which a woman steps in to protect her husband during a dispute.