Exodus 22 4

Exodus 22:4 kjv

If the theft be certainly found in his hand alive, whether it be ox, or ass, or sheep; he shall restore double.

Exodus 22:4 nkjv

If the theft is certainly found alive in his hand, whether it is an ox or donkey or sheep, he shall restore double.

Exodus 22:4 niv

If the stolen animal is found alive in their possession?whether ox or donkey or sheep?they must pay back double.

Exodus 22:4 esv

If the stolen beast is found alive in his possession, whether it is an ox or a donkey or a sheep, he shall pay double.

Exodus 22:4 nlt

If someone steals an ox or a donkey or a sheep and it is found in the thief's possession, then the thief must pay double the value of the stolen animal.

Exodus 22 verses

Exodus 22 4 Meaning

Exodus 22:4 establishes a specific legal requirement for restitution concerning theft. When a stolen animal—be it an ox, donkey, or sheep—is discovered alive and in the possession of the thief, the penalty is for the thief to pay double its value. This distinct regulation underscores a nuanced approach to justice in the Mosaic Law, differentiating degrees of culpability and restitution based on the state of the stolen property and the ease of its recovery. It aims for both restoration to the victim and punitive deterrence for the offender.

Exodus 22 4 Context

Exodus 22:4 is part of the "Book of the Covenant" (Exo 20:22–23:33), which elaborates on the Ten Commandments and provides specific civil laws for Israelite society. This section (Exo 21:1–23:19) covers regulations regarding property rights, personal injury, and social justice, forming the foundational legal framework given by God. Chapter 22 specifically addresses various forms of theft and property damage. Verse 4 contrasts directly with Exodus 22:1, which stipulates higher penalties (four or five times the value) for stolen animals that are killed or sold. This distinction highlights that when the stolen property is recovered alive, indicating a potentially less severe impact on the victim and a clearer path to restitution, the penalty is less severe yet still significant, fostering a just and ordered society where property is valued and wrongdoing is addressed.

Exodus 22 4 Word analysis

• If (וְכִי – v’khī): This conjunctive particle, often rendered as "if" or "and if," introduces a conditional clause. It sets up a specific hypothetical case or scenario within the broader legal framework, indicating that the following stipulations apply precisely under these circumstances. It shows the Mosaic Law's meticulousness in addressing diverse situations.
• the theft (הַגְּנֵבָה – hagenēvah): Refers to the "stolen thing" or the "act of stealing." Here, the definite article "the" (ha-) points specifically to the item that was stolen, which in this context is the animal. It highlights that the legal focus is on the recovered property.
• is certainly found (יִמָּצֵא – yimmatsē’): Derived from the verb "to find" (מָצָא - matsa), the Niph'al imperfect form suggests a definitive, undeniable discovery. It's not a mere suspicion but a clear uncovering of the stolen item. The certainty of finding establishes proof of the crime and links the thief to the possession.
• alive (חַיִּים – ḥayyīm): The plural form of "life" or "living state." This is the pivotal detail that distinguishes this case from other forms of theft, particularly Exodus 22:1. Its presence means the stolen animal retains its full value and utility for the original owner, allowing for direct restoration or its equivalent value without significant loss due to damage or consumption.
• in his possession (בְּיָדוֹ – b'yāḏô): Literally, "in his hand." This phrase signifies that the stolen property is physically under the control, custody, or direct ownership of the thief. This implies direct evidence linking the thief to the crime, providing undeniable proof and accountability.
• whether it is an ox or a donkey or a sheep (שׁוֹר אוֹ חֲמוֹר אוֹ שֶׂה – šôr ô ḥămōr ô śe): These three animals represent the primary and most valuable livestock in an ancient Israelite agricultural economy. They are specific examples used to encompass a general category of essential property, indicating the law's concern for protecting core economic assets of individuals and families.
• he shall pay double (שְׁנַיִם יְשַׁלֵּם – sh'nayim y'shallēm): "Sh'nayim" means "two" or "double." "Y'shallēm" comes from the verb שָׁלַם (shalem), meaning "to be complete," "to make whole," "to restore," or "to pay." The term implies full restoration to the victim plus an additional punitive amount. This serves both as compensation to the aggrieved party for their loss and trouble, and as a strong financial deterrent against theft.

• "If the theft is certainly found alive in his possession": This crucial phrase establishes the condition for the reduced penalty. It implies that the property was discovered before it could be fully profited from, consumed, or irrecoverably disposed of. The state of the animal ("alive") and its location ("in his possession") are key factors determining the lesser judgment, signaling a restorative emphasis when full restitution is readily possible. This distinguishes it from more destructive forms of theft.
• "whether it is an ox or a donkey or a sheep, he shall pay double": This part specifies the scope and the precise restitution. By naming common high-value livestock, the law directly addresses the most significant forms of property in their society. The "double payment" demonstrates God's commitment to both victim compensation and upholding justice, while acknowledging the nuances of the situation where the original item itself could be restored, thus making the punishment less severe than for permanent loss.

Exodus 22 4 Bonus section

The concept of "double" repayment appears in various contexts in ancient Near Eastern law codes (such as the Code of Hammurabi), suggesting a shared legal principle of compensation for theft where the item is recoverable. However, the specific moral and theological underpinnings in the Mosaic Law, such as the command to love one's neighbor and the character of God as a righteous judge, elevate these statutes beyond mere legal codes to reflect divine justice and a pathway for a holy community. The distinction between penalties in Exodus 22:1 and 22:4 shows a system designed to recognize degrees of malice and loss, demonstrating a profound legal wisdom from a divine source. This highlights God's justice that is not just retributive but also redemptive and restorative where possible, emphasizing the sanctity of property rights and the order of society He intended for His people.

Exodus 22 4 Commentary

Exodus 22:4 beautifully illustrates the balanced nature of God's law. While theft is always a violation of the eighth commandment, the specific penalty here reflects wisdom and nuanced judgment. The 'double' restitution for a stolen animal found alive in the thief's possession is notably less severe than the 'four- or fivefold' repayment mandated in Exodus 22:1 when the animal has been killed or sold. This distinction highlights several key principles:First, it emphasizes restoration (shalem) to the victim, aiming to make them completely whole, plus a punitive component. The fact that the animal is "alive" simplifies full restoration, as the immediate financial loss to the owner is contained. Second, it serves as a powerful deterrent without being overly destructive to the thief. The penalty ensures that the thief does not profit from the crime and incurs a substantial loss, reinforcing the consequences of illicit actions. Third, it might implicitly encourage a thief, if apprehended with the living animal, to admit guilt or cooperate, knowing the penalty is less than if the animal was disposed of. This nuance encourages truthfulness and mitigates further harm. The law demonstrates God's concern for both justice and the practical well-being of the community, where justice is proportional to the offense and its consequences.