Leviticus 6:2

"If someone sins and acts unfaithfully against the LORD by deceiving his neighbor in regard to a deposit or security entrusted to him or stolen, or if he extorts his neighbor

Study Bible

If someone sins
The Hebrew word for "sins" here is "חָטָא" (chata), which means to miss the mark or to fall short of a standard. In the context of Leviticus, sin is not just a personal failing but an offense against God's holiness. This phrase sets the stage for understanding sin as a breach of divine law, emphasizing the need for atonement and reconciliation with God.

and offends the LORD
The phrase "offends the LORD" underscores the gravity of sin as not merely a social or ethical failing but a direct affront to God Himself. The Hebrew word "מַעַל" (ma'al) implies treachery or unfaithfulness, suggesting that sin is a betrayal of the covenant relationship between God and His people. This highlights the seriousness of sin in the biblical narrative, where every act of wrongdoing is ultimately against God.

by deceiving his neighbor
"Deceiving" comes from the Hebrew "כָּחַשׁ" (kachash), which means to lie or deny. This phrase points to the relational aspect of sin, where deceit breaks trust and community harmony. In ancient Israel, community integrity was vital, and deception was a direct threat to social cohesion. This reflects the biblical principle that love for God is inseparable from love for one's neighbor.

regarding a deposit or security
The terms "deposit" and "security" refer to items entrusted to someone for safekeeping. In the ancient Near Eastern context, these were common practices, and the violation of such trust was a serious offense. The Hebrew words "פִּקָּדוֹן" (piqqadon) and "תְּרוּמָה" (terumah) indicate the sacredness of trust and the expectation of faithfulness in handling another's property. This highlights the biblical call to integrity and stewardship.

or through robbery
"Robbery" is translated from the Hebrew "גָּזַל" (gazal), meaning to seize or take by force. This act of violence against another's property rights is condemned throughout Scripture. The inclusion of robbery in this verse underscores the biblical principle of justice and the protection of personal property, reflecting God's concern for the vulnerable and oppressed.

or if he has extorted from his neighbor
The word "extorted" comes from the Hebrew "עָשַׁק" (ashaq), which means to oppress or exploit. This phrase highlights the sin of using one's power or position to unjustly gain from another. In the biblical context, extortion is a grave sin because it violates the command to love one's neighbor and protect the weak. This reflects God's heart for justice and His call for His people to act righteously in all their dealings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is offended by sin and deceit.

2. The Sinner
An individual who commits a sin by deceiving or wronging a neighbor.

3. The Neighbor
The person who is deceived or wronged by the sinner.

4. The Deposit or Security
Items or property entrusted to someone, which are central to the sin of deceit.

5. Robbery and Extortion
Acts of taking or demanding something from someone wrongfully, highlighting the nature of the sin.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin is not just a personal failing but an offense against God. Recognize the gravity of deceit and theft in God's eyes.

Integrity in Relationships
Uphold honesty and trustworthiness in all dealings with others, reflecting God's character.

Restitution and Repentance
When wrongs are committed, seek to make restitution and genuinely repent, following biblical principles.

Community Responsibility
Understand that sin affects the community, not just the individual, and strive to maintain harmony and justice.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God demands justice, He also offers mercy and forgiveness through repentance and faith in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the nature of sin as an offense against God change our perspective on personal integrity?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are trustworthy stewards of what others entrust to us?

3. How does the principle of restitution in Leviticus 6:2 apply to modern-day situations where we might wrong someone?

4. What steps can we take to foster a community that values honesty and justice, in light of this passage?

5. How can we balance the need for justice with the call to show mercy and forgiveness, as demonstrated in the life and teachings of Jesus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:15-16
The Ten Commandments, which include prohibitions against stealing and bearing false witness, relate directly to the sins described in Leviticus 6:2.

Proverbs 6:16-19
Lists things the LORD hates, including a lying tongue and hands that shed innocent blood, which connect to deceit and robbery.

Luke 19:8
Zacchaeus' restitution for his wrongs reflects the principle of making amends for deceit and extortion.

Ephesians 4:28
Encourages believers to work honestly and share with those in need, contrasting with the deceit and robbery mentioned in Leviticus 6:2.