King James Version

What Does Exodus 22:5 Mean?

Exodus 22:5 in the King James Version says “If a man shall cause a field or vineyard to be eaten, and shall put in his beast, and shall feed in another man's field;...” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“If a man shall cause a field or vineyard to be eaten, and shall put in his beast, and shall feed in another man's field; of the best of his own field, and of the best of his own vineyard, shall he make restitution.”

Exodus 22:5 · KJV

Context

3

If the sun be risen upon him, there shall be blood shed for him; for he should make full restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.

4

If the theft be certainly found in his hand alive, whether it be ox, or ass, or sheep; he shall restore double.

5

If a man shall cause a field or vineyard to be eaten, and shall put in his beast, and shall feed in another man's field; of the best of his own field, and of the best of his own vineyard, shall he make restitution.

6

If fire break out, and catch in thorns, so that the stacks of corn, or the standing corn, or the field, be consumed therewith; he that kindled the fire shall surely make restitution.

7

If a man shall deliver unto his neighbour money or stuff to keep, and it be stolen out of the man's house; if the thief be found, let him pay double.

Read Exodus 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
If a man shall cause a field or vineyard to be eaten, and shall put in his beast, and shall feed in another man's field; of the best of his own field, and of the best of his own vineyard, shall he make restitution.

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
כִּ֤י1 of 17
H3588

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

וּבִעֵ֖ר2 of 17

“and shall feed”

H1197

to be(-come) brutish

אִישׁ֙3 of 17

“If a man”

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

שָׂדֵ֛הוּ4 of 17

“field”

H7704

a field (as flat)

אוֹ5 of 17
H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

כַּרְמ֖וֹ6 of 17

“of his own vineyard”

H3754

a garden or vineyard

וְשִׁלַּח֙7 of 17

“and shall put”

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

אֶת8 of 17
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

בְּעִירֹ֔ה9 of 17

“in his beast”

H1165

cattle

וּבִעֵ֖ר10 of 17

“and shall feed”

H1197

to be(-come) brutish

שָׂדֵ֛הוּ11 of 17

“field”

H7704

a field (as flat)

אַחֵ֑ר12 of 17

“in another man's”

H312

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

וּמֵיטַ֥ב13 of 17

“and of the best”

H4315

the best part

שָׂדֵ֛הוּ14 of 17

“field”

H7704

a field (as flat)

וּמֵיטַ֥ב15 of 17

“and of the best”

H4315

the best part

כַּרְמ֖וֹ16 of 17

“of his own vineyard”

H3754

a garden or vineyard

יְשַׁלֵּֽם׃17 of 17

“shall he 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

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 22:5 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 22:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 21:34Exodus 22:3Job 20:18Exodus 22:12

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

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