ESV Reformation Study Bible – Deut 22:4
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Deut 22:4

22:4 his ox fallen down. Again, accidental loss of private property is to be prevented if possible (cf. Ex. 23:5). Jesus quoted this verse to justify healing a man on the Sabbath. The Pharisees allowed the law of helping a fallen animal to supersede their rules for Sabbath keeping, but had no pity on a man in serious need (Luke 14:5).