King James Version

What Does Exodus 22:13 Mean?

Exodus 22:13 in the King James Version says “If it be torn in pieces , then let him bring it for witness, and he shall not make good that which was torn.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Exodus 22:13 · KJV

Context

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.

15

But if the owner thereof be with it, he shall not make it good: if it be an hired thing, it came for his hire.

Read Exodus 22 full chapter

Commentary

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

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 · 8 words
אִם1 of 8
H518

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

יִטָּרֵ֖ף2 of 8

“If it be torn in pieces”

H2963

to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)

יִטָּרֵ֖ף3 of 8

“If it be torn in pieces”

H2963

to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)

יְבִאֵ֣הוּ4 of 8

“then let him bring”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

עֵ֑ד5 of 8

“it for witness”

H5707

concretely, a witness; abstractly, testimony; specifically, a recorder, i.e., prince

הַטְּרֵפָ֖ה6 of 8

“that which was torn”

H2966

prey, i.e., flocks devoured by animals

לֹ֥א7 of 8
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יְשַׁלֵּֽם׃8 of 8

“and he shall not make good”

H7999

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

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 22:13 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 22:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Amos 3:12Ezekiel 4:14Micah 5:8Nahum 2:12

Test Your Knowledge

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

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