Deuteronomy 25:2-4

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

² If the one in the wrong deserves to be flogged, the judge shall make that person lie down and be beaten in his presence with the number of lashes proportionate to the offense. ³ Forty lashes may be given but not more; if more lashes than these are given, your neighbor will be degraded in your sight.

⁴ You shall not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.