Matthew Poole and continuators on Exodus 21:30

30 If there be laid on him a sum of money, then he shall give for the ransom of his life, whatsoever is laid upon him.

Either by the avenger of blood, the next a-kin to the party slain, who is willing to exchange the punishment; or by the Judge, who may discern some circumstances, which may much lessen the crime, as if an oxe had broken his cords wherewith he was tyed, or broke forth through the carelesness or wickedness of his servant to whose care he was committed.

Marginal references: Num. 35. 31.