THEOSISWlastow G.K.
In the passage spanning verses 10 to 13, we find significant regulations relating to the herdsmen, which, as illustrated by Jacob's words to Laban (Gen. 31:39), are ancient guidelines that have long governed the interactions between ranch owners and those who entrusted their small flocks to his care. Particularly relevant are the dynamics between the herd owner and the shepherds responsible for their flocks. Should conflicts arise, an oath administered before judges in the name of Jehovah would resolve the issues, though this specifically pertained to clandestine theft from the designated herd.
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The remains of slain or mangled animals were to be returned to the owner, who could not seek restitution for the value of the deceased, as such incidents were frequent in the life of a shepherd and could not be entirely avoided. For theft that was not overt (v. 12), meaning when the shepherd was aware of the thief and could possibly stop the act or identify the wrongdoer, compensation was owed to the owner or the shepherd who had entrusted their cattle to protect their assets. In response, the thief was required to repay double, while in more clearly defined situations, the restitution could be quadruple or even quintuple.