King James Version

What Does Exodus 22:27 Mean?

Exodus 22:27 in the King James Version says “For that is his covering only, it is his raiment for his skin: wherein shall he sleep? and it shall come to pass, when h... — study this verse from Exodus chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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.

Exodus 22:27 · KJV


Context

25

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.

26

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

27

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.

28

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

29

Thou shalt not delay to offer the first of thy ripe fruits, and of thy liquors: the firstborn of thy sons shalt thou give unto me. the first: Heb. thy fulness liquors: Heb. tear


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
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.

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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

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 · 17 words
כִּ֣י1 of 17
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הִ֤וא2 of 17
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

כְסוּתֹה֙3 of 17

For that is his covering

H3682

a cover (garment); figuratively, a veiling

לְבַדָּ֔הּ4 of 17
H905

properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit

הִ֥וא5 of 17
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

שִׂמְלָת֖וֹ6 of 17

only it is his raiment

H8071

a dress, especially a mantle

לְעֹר֑וֹ7 of 17

for his skin

H5785

skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather

בַּמֶּ֣ה8 of 17
H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

יִשְׁכָּ֔ב9 of 17

wherein shall he sleep

H7901

to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)

וְהָיָה֙10 of 17
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

כִּֽי11 of 17
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יִצְעַ֣ק12 of 17

and it shall come to pass when he crieth

H6817

to shriek; (by implication) to proclaim (an assembly)

אֵלַ֔י13 of 17
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

וְשָֽׁמַעְתִּ֖י14 of 17

unto me that I will hear

H8085

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

כִּֽי15 of 17
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

חַנּ֥וּן16 of 17

for I am gracious

H2587

gracious

אָֽנִי׃17 of 17
H589

i


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 22:27 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 22:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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