Or all that about which he hath sworn falsely; he shall even restore it in the principal, and shall add the fifth part more thereto, and give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his trespass offering.
LEVITICUS 6:5KJVWhat does Leviticus 6:5 mean?
Leviticus 6:5 says that if someone has sworn falsely about something and wronged another person, they must return what was taken, pay back the full amount, and add an extra fifth as compensation, giving it to the rightful owner on the same day they bring their guilt offering. This verse sets out the requirement for making things right with another person before seeking forgiveness from God.
In context, God is giving Moses instructions for the Israelites about what to do when someone has sinned against another person, especially by lying or stealing. The verse emphasizes not just returning what was taken, but also adding extra as a way to make up for the harm done. This process is tied to the act of bringing a "trespass offering," showing that making things right with people is connected to making things right with God.
The Hebrew behind Leviticus 6:5
- "Sworn" (שָׁבַע, shava): This word means to take an oath or swear, highlighting that the wrongdoing here involves a false promise or oath, not just theft.
- "Falsely" (שֶׁקֶר, sheqer): This word means a lie or falsehood, stressing that the sin is not only in the act but also in the dishonesty.
- "Restore" (שָׁלַם, shalam): This verb means to make whole or repay, showing that true repentance includes practical steps to repair the damage.
- "Principal" (רֹאשׁ, rosh): Literally "head" or "main part," this word refers to the original amount taken or lost, making clear that full restitution is required.
- "Add" (יָסַף, yasaf) and "part" (חֲמִשִּׁית, chamishit): Together, these words mean to add a fifth (20%) to the original amount, underlining that restitution goes beyond just returning what was lost.
Why Leviticus 6:5 matters
- Leviticus 6:5 clarifies that making amends for wrongdoing is not just a private matter between a person and God; it requires real action toward the person who was harmed.
- The verse shows that honesty and restitution are central to the community's life, not just ritual sacrifices.
- By linking restitution to the day of the trespass offering, the verse connects personal relationships and worship, teaching that reconciliation with others is part of reconciliation with God.