Exodus Chapter 22:23

Exodus 22:23 states:

“If you do mistreat them in any way and they cry out to me, I will certainly hear their cry.”

This verse is part of a section in Exodus that deals with laws and rules for the Israelite community. Specifically, this verse is addressing the treatment of vulnerable people, such as widows and orphans.

The key points from this verse are:

1. Prohibition against mistreatment: God warns the Israelites against mistreating or oppressing vulnerable members of society, such as widows and orphans.

2. Cry for help: If these vulnerable people are mistreated and cry out to God, he will hear their cry.

3. God’s intervention: By hearing the cries of the oppressed, God implies that he will take action to protect and defend them. This demonstrates God’s concern for the powerless and his desire for justice.

The verse emphasizes that God is attentive to the struggles of the disadvantaged and will not tolerate their mistreatment. It establishes a principle of divine justice and accountability – those who harm the vulnerable will face consequences from God himself.

This verse underscores the importance of compassion, care, and just treatment of all people, especially the most vulnerable members of the community, in God’s eyes.