Every now and again this quote "It all depends on whose Ox is being gored" come up, presented as a question solving principle. And I'm a bit puzzled by the implication.

Anybody who goes round being cruel to oxen or other dumb animals is no friend of mine. If it happened in front of me I don't think it'd make too much difference whether it was my Ox or not.

It's not a biblical reference familiar to me in my religious tradition. coveting a neighbour's ox I know about, but goring the poor creature, no. Someone enlighten me.