King James Version

What Does Exodus 22:12 Mean?

Exodus 22:12 in the King James Version says “And if it be stolen from him, he shall make restitution unto the owner thereof.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And if it be stolen from him, he shall make restitution unto the owner thereof.”

Exodus 22:12 · KJV

Context

10

If a man deliver unto his neighbour an ass, or an ox, or a sheep, or any beast, to keep; and it die, or be hurt, or driven away, no man seeing it:

11

Then shall an oath of the LORD be between them both, that he hath not put his hand unto his neighbour's goods; and the owner of it shall accept thereof, and he shall not make it good.

12

And if it be stolen from him, he shall make restitution unto the owner thereof.

13

If it be torn in pieces , then let him bring it for witness, and he shall not make good that which was torn.

14

And if a man borrow ought of his neighbour, and it be hurt, or die, the owner thereof being not with it, he shall surely make it good.

Read Exodus 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And if it be stolen from him, he shall make restitution unto the owner thereof.

This ordinance reveals God's comprehensive justice—regulating economic transactions, property rights, and social relationships. The mishpatim create framework for covenant community to flourish. Each law applies broader principles: love God supremely, love neighbor practically. Modern believers aren't bound by ceremonial laws but should pursue their spirit—justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). God's character revealed in law guides Christian ethics.

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Historical & Cultural Context

These civil regulations distinguished Israel from surrounding nations, creating a society reflecting God's justice. The laws balance individual rights with community welfare, property rights with compassion for the poor.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this law reveal God's character—His justice, mercy, or holiness?
  2. What New Testament principles build upon or fulfill this Old Testament regulation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וְאִם1 of 6
H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

יִגָּנֵ֖ב2 of 6

“And if it be stolen”

H1589

to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive

יִגָּנֵ֖ב3 of 6

“And if it be stolen”

H1589

to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive

מֵֽעִמּ֑וֹ4 of 6
H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

יְשַׁלֵּ֖ם5 of 6

“from him he shall make restitution”

H7999

to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate

לִבְעָלָֽיו׃6 of 6

“unto the owner”

H1167

a master; hence, a husband, or (figuratively) owner (often used with another noun in modifications of this latter sense)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 22:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 22:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 31:39Exodus 22:7

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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