Crimes against Persons

These verses from Exodus focus on differentiating crimes that are categorized as crimes against a person from crimes that are classified as property damage. The rationale for determining the appropriate punishment for each of these crimes reflects ancient Israelite values such as respect for one’s elders, responsibility for the greater community’s safety, and respect and protection for those granted personhood. Concepts of personhood reflect a social hierarchy, with parents  above children and enslaved people.