King James Version

What Does Leviticus 19:35 Mean?

Leviticus 19:35 in the King James Version says “Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure.” — study this verse from Leviticus chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure.”

Leviticus 19:35 · KJV

Context

33

And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. vex: or, oppress

34

But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.

35

Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure.

36

Just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin, shall ye have: I am the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt. weights: Heb. stones

37

Therefore shall ye observe all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: I am the LORD.

Read Leviticus 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure.

This verse falls within the section on Various Laws of Holiness. Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18).


Hebrews 9-10 explains how Christ's once-for-all sacrifice supersedes the repeated Levitical offerings, providing permanent cleansing from sin.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Wide-ranging ethical and ceremonial laws, including the command to 'love your neighbor as yourself' (19:18). Chapters 17-27, often called the 'Holiness Code,' expand covenant obligations beyond ritual to encompass all of life—sexuality, economics, justice, and relationships. The repeated refrain 'I am the LORD' grounds these laws in God's character and covenant relationship with Israel. Israel received these laws while encamped at Sinai, before entering Canaan. The laws prepared them for life in the promised land, distinguishing them from Canaanite practices and establishing their identity as God's holy nation. The portable tabernacle, central to Levitical worship, accompanied them through wilderness wanderings and eventually found permanent form in Solomon's temple. Archaeological discoveries at sites like Ugarit reveal Canaanite religious practices Israel's laws explicitly rejected, confirming the Bible's historical reliability and the distinctiveness of Israelite worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse help you understand both God's justice and His mercy in salvation?
  2. In what ways does this verse challenge contemporary cultural values or your personal attitudes?
  3. How can you use this verse to worship God more fully, obey Him more faithfully, or love others more sacrificially?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
לֹֽא1 of 7
H3808

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

תַעֲשׂ֥וּ2 of 7

“Ye shall do”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

עָ֖וֶל3 of 7

“no unrighteousness”

H5766

(moral) evil

בַּמִּשְׁפָּ֑ט4 of 7

“in judgment”

H4941

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

בַּמִּדָּ֕ה5 of 7

“in meteyard”

H4060

properly, extension, i.e., height or breadth; specifically, tribute (as measured)

בַּמִּשְׁקָ֖ל6 of 7

“in weight”

H4948

weight (numerically estimated); hence, weighing (the act)

וּבַמְּשׂוּרָֽה׃7 of 7

“or in measure”

H4884

a measure (for liquids)

Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Leviticus 19:35 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 Leviticus 19:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 25:15Deuteronomy 25:13Proverbs 16:11Leviticus 19:15Matthew 7:2Proverbs 11:1

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