King James Version

What Does Exodus 22:26 Mean?

“If thou at all take thy neighbour's raiment to pledge, thou shalt deliver it unto him by that the sun goeth down:”

Context

And my wrath shall wax hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless.

If thou lend money to any of my people that is poor by thee, thou shalt not be to him as an usurer, neither shalt thou lay upon him usury.

If thou at all take thy neighbour's raiment to pledge, thou shalt deliver it unto him by that the sun goeth down:

For that is his covering only, it is his raiment for his skin: wherein shall he sleep? and it shall come to pass, when he crieth unto me, that I will hear; for I am gracious.

Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people. gods: or, judges

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26, 27) **Thy neighbour’s raiment**.—The *simlah, *or *salmah, *here translated “raiment,” was the large flowing outer raiment, elsewhere called *beged, *which was commonly of woollen, and corresponded to the *abba *of the modern Arabs. It was a warm wrapper, and has sometimes been compared to a Scotch plaid. The poor Israelite did not much want it by day; but needed it as a blanket by night—a practice known to many modern tribes of Arabs. The present passage forbids the retention of this garment as a pledge during the night, and seems to imply a continuous practice of pledging the *simlah *by day, and being allowed to Enjoy the use of it, nevertheless, as a nocturnal covering.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 22:26 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.