[AndrewC]

I have a better moral yardstick than a book that tells slave owners they can beat their "property" to death as long as life lingers for at least 24 hours

It is so good that you can not name it. Plus you conveniently forget to mention the teachings of the New Testament.

Jhn 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

Jhn 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

[js1138]

Ah, the New Testament.

Slaves, accept the authority of your masters with all deference, not only those who are kind and gentle but also those who are harsh. For it is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God's approval. (1Pet. 2:18-29)