Leviticus 22:28

Verse

Berean Standard Bible

But you must not slaughter an ox or a sheep on the same day as its young.

American Standard Version (1901)

And whether it be cow or ewe, ye shall not kill it and its young both in one day.

Bible in Basic English

A cow or a sheep may not be put to death with its young on the same day.

Douay-Rheims 1899

Whether it be a cow, or a sheep, they shall not be sacrificed the same day with their young ones.

Free Bible Version

However, don't kill a bull or a sheep and its young on the same day.

Geneva Bible 1599

As for the cowe or the ewe, yee shall not kill her, and her yong both in one day.

King James (Authorized) Version

And whether it be cow or ewe, ye shall not kill it and her young both in one day.

One Unity Resource Bible

Whether it is a cow or ewe, you shall not kill it and its young both in one day.

Translation for Translators

Do not slaughter a cow or a sheep and its baby on the same day.

Unlocked Literal Bible

Do not kill a cow or ewe along with its young, both on the same day.

Noah Webster Bible

And whether it is cow, or ewe, ye shall not kill it and her young both in one day.

World English Bible

Whether it is a cow or ewe, you shall not kill it and its young both in one day.

Young's Literal Translation

but an ox or sheep — it and its young one, ye do not slaughter in one day.

Context

Worthy Offerings

²⁷“When an ox, a sheep, or a goat is born, it must remain with its mother for seven days. From the eighth day on, it will be acceptable as an offering made by fire to the LORD. ²⁸But you must not slaughter an ox or a sheep on the same day as its young.

Summary

In Leviticus 22:28, God instructs the Israelites to wait until an animal is at least eight days old before sacrificing it. This command reflects God's concern for the well-being of His creation, ensuring that the animals offered are mature enough to be suitable sacrifices. It also emphasizes the importance of offering God our best and most valuable possessions, rather than giving Him anything less. This verse underscores the principle of honoring God with our offerings and dedicating to Him what is precious and worthy.

Commentary

Adam Clarke
Keil-Delitzsch
John Gill
Tyndale

Adam Clarke Bible Commentary

Ye shall not kill it and her young in one day - This precept was certainly intended to inculcate mercy and tenderness of heart; and so the Jews understood it. When it is necessary to take away the lives of innocent animals for the support of our own, we should do it in such a way as not to blunt our moral feelings; and deplore the necessity, while we feel an express gratitude to God for permission, to do it.