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Exodus 22:29 - Firstborn sanctity: delay then dedicate?

Exodus 22:29 - שמות 22:29

Hebrew Text

כֵּן־תַּעֲשֶׂה לְשֹׁרְךָ לְצֹאנֶךָ שִׁבְעַת יָמִים יִהְיֶה עִם־אִמּוֹ בַּיּוֹם הַשְּׁמִינִי תִּתְּנוֹ־לִי׃

English Translation

In like manner shalt thou do with thy oxen, and with thy sheep: seven days it shall be with his dam; on the eighth day thou shalt give it me.

Transliteration

Ken-ta'aseh leshorekha letzonekha shiv'at yamim yihyeh im-imo bayom hashmini titno-li.

Hebrew Leining Text

כֵּֽן־תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה לְשֹׁרְךָ֖ לְצֹאנֶ֑ךָ שִׁבְעַ֤ת יָמִים֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה עִם־אִמּ֔וֹ בַּיּ֥וֹם הַשְּׁמִינִ֖י תִּתְּנוֹ־לִֽי׃
כֵּֽן־תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה לְשֹׁרְךָ֖ לְצֹאנֶ֑ךָ שִׁבְעַ֤ת יָמִים֙ יִהְיֶ֣ה עִם־אִמּ֔וֹ בַּיּ֥וֹם הַשְּׁמִינִ֖י תִּתְּנוֹ־לִֽי׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context and Source

The verse (Exodus 22:29) appears in Parashas Mishpatim, which details various civil and ritual laws. This particular commandment pertains to the sanctity of firstborn animals and the proper treatment of livestock in relation to their mothers.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Exodus 22:29) explains that the verse refers to the mitzvah of שִׂבְעַת יָמִים (seven days), during which a newborn animal must remain with its mother before being separated. This applies to both oxen and sheep, as the verse specifies. On the eighth day, the firstborn must be consecrated to Hashem, in accordance with the laws of בכור בהמה טהורה (firstborn kosher animals).

Rambam's Halachic Perspective

Rambam (Hilchos Bechoros 1:14) codifies this law, stating that it is forbidden to separate a newborn animal from its mother during the first seven days of its life. This applies whether the animal is a firstborn or not. The eighth day is the earliest time it may be given to the Kohen (for a firstborn kosher animal) or used for other purposes.

Midrashic Insight

The Mechilta (Mishpatim 20) connects this law to the principle of צער בעלי חיים (preventing suffering to animals). By requiring the newborn to stay with its mother for seven days, the Torah ensures the animal's welfare and proper nurturing before any separation or consecration.

Additional Commentaries

  • Ibn Ezra: Emphasizes that this mitzvah teaches compassion, as even animals deserve consideration in their bond with their offspring.
  • Chizkuni: Notes that the "eighth day" is significant because it mirrors other Torah commandments (e.g., circumcision on the eighth day), symbolizing a transition from the natural to the sacred.

Practical Halachic Implications

Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 16:1) rules that this law applies even today, though the practical application is limited due to the absence of the Beis HaMikdash. However, the underlying principles of animal welfare and the sanctity of firstborns remain relevant in halachic discussions.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Exodus 22:29 mean when it says an animal should stay with its mother for seven days?
A: The verse teaches that a newborn ox or sheep must remain with its mother for the first seven days of its life before being offered or used for holy purposes. This shows compassion for both the mother and offspring, as separating them immediately would cause distress. Rashi explains that this law applies to sacrifices and offerings, ensuring the animal is at least eight days old before being given to the Temple.
Q: Why does the Torah specify the eighth day for giving an animal to G-d?
A: The eighth day symbolizes a transition from the natural world (represented by the seven days of creation) to a higher spiritual purpose. The Rambam (Hilchos Issurei Mizbe'ach 7:6) explains that by the eighth day, the animal is strong enough to be separated from its mother and fit for holy use. This parallels other Torah laws that involve the eighth day, such as circumcision (Bris Milah).
Q: Does Exodus 22:29 apply to animals today even though we don't have the Temple?
A: While we cannot bring sacrifices without the Temple, the principle of treating animals with compassion remains relevant. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 83) explains that this law teaches us to avoid cruelty, even with animals designated for holy purposes. Today, this ethic influences Jewish laws (halacha) regarding proper treatment of animals in farming and slaughter (shechita).
Q: What is the deeper lesson behind the commandment in Exodus 22:29?
A: The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 31:5) teaches that this law emphasizes gratitude—just as the mother animal provides for its young, we must acknowledge G-d's kindness by dedicating our possessions to holiness. The seven-day waiting period also reminds us to balance our material and spiritual lives, not rushing to use resources selfishly before sanctifying them.