An ox may wander, strong and wild, its strength a danger, fierce or mild. And when it harms without a sign, the loss is tragic, yet not a crime.

But when the warnings rise and speak, and danger’s known week after week, the silent shrug, the careless hand, these bring a weight we must withstand.

A life is precious in God’s sight, from child to servant, equal right. And when neglect has paved the way, a price is set, a debt to pay.

A pit left open, ground unkept, a neighbor’s loss where someone slept, the law steps in, restoring peace, that broken trust might find release.

And when two oxen clash and fall, shared burdens bind us, one and all. But if the danger long was known, the fault is ours, and ours alone.

So speaks the law with steady voice: Be mindful, humble in your choice. For God sees clearly what we do, and calls us to be just and true.