Exodus 22:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 22:1
1 If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep.
Chapter Context
Exodus 22 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, creation, fellowship. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 22:1
1 If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep.
Analysis
If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep.
Restitution exceeds theft—'five oxen for an ox' (חֲמִשָּׁה בָקָר, chamishah vaqar) means 500% repayment for oxen, 400% for sheep. Why the difference? Oxen are working animals; stealing one damages victim's livelihood more. The restitution is restorative justice—victim is made whole plus penalty discourages theft. This contrasts with retributive systems (punishment without restitution). Zacchaeus offers fourfold restitution (Luke 19:8), applying this principle. The gospel is ultimate restitution—Christ pays infinitely more than we stole (His life for our sin). Where sin increased, grace abounded more (Romans 5:20).
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern law codes varied on theft penalties. Hammurabi required 30-fold for temple theft, 10-fold for palace theft, or death if unable to pay. Israel's graduated restitution (4-5x) was humane while deterring theft.
Reflection
- Why does restitution exceed the theft (400-500%)—what principles of justice does this teach?
- How does Christ's payment for sin exemplify ultimate restitution—paying infinitely more than we owe?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Numbers 5:7, 2 Samuel 12:6, Proverbs 6:31, Luke 19:8