Leviticus 19:35 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 19:35 mean?

Leviticus 19:35 commands the Israelites not to act dishonestly or unfairly when making judgments or using measurements like length, weight, or volume. The verse insists on honesty and fairness in all dealings that involve measuring or evaluating something.

In this part of Leviticus, God is speaking to the people of Israel through Moses, giving them practical laws for living together as a community. The verse addresses everyday business and legal practices, making it clear that cheating or being unjust—whether in court decisions or in trade—is unacceptable. This instruction is part of a broader section about living righteously and treating others justly.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 19:35

• "Unrighteousness" (עָוֶל, 'avel) refers to injustice or wrongdoing, especially in the sense of cheating or acting unfairly. Its use here highlights that dishonesty in measurements is not just a minor mistake but a moral failing.
• "Judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) means a legal decision or verdict. Including this word shows that the command covers both formal legal settings and everyday business.
• "Meteyard" (מִדָּה, middah) is a word for measuring length or distance. This makes the command very practical, covering things like measuring cloth or land.
• "Weight" (מִשְׁקָל, mishqal) and "measure" (מְשׂוּרָה, mesurah) refer to weighing and measuring goods, such as food or drink. The verse is concerned with all forms of trade and exchange.

Why Leviticus 19:35 matters

• Leviticus 19:35 makes clear that honesty is not just a personal virtue but a community requirement, especially in business and legal matters.
• The verse connects fairness in everyday dealings to the larger theme of holiness and justice that runs through Leviticus 19.
• By specifying different types of measurements, the verse shows that God's concern for justice covers even the smallest details of daily life, not just major legal cases.