What does Exodus 23:5 mean?

Exodus 23:5 highlights themes such as compassion, helpfulness, neighborly-love when read in context.

How should I apply Exodus 23:5 today?

Read the surrounding passage, compare related cross references, and turn the verse into a short prayer and concrete action.

If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.

3Neither shalt thou countenance a poor man in his cause.

4If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.

5If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.

6Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.

7Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked.

compassionhelpfulnessneighborly-love

Matthew 5:44
Jesus teaches to love your enemies, reflecting the compassion in helping those who oppose you.
Galatians 6:2
Paul encourages bearing one another's burdens, echoing the command to help others.
James 2:15-16
James discusses the importance of helping those in need, aligning with the principle in Exodus.