Leviticus 6:4

once he has sinned and becomes guilty, he must return what he has stolen or taken by extortion, or the deposit entrusted to him, or the lost property he found,

Study Bible

once he has sinned and become guilty
This phrase underscores the acknowledgment of sin and guilt, which is a crucial step in the process of repentance and restoration. In Hebrew, the word for "sinned" is "חָטָא" (chata), which means to miss the mark or to err. The concept of sin in the Old Testament is not just about breaking a rule but failing to live up to the divine standard set by God. The acknowledgment of guilt is essential for reconciliation with God and others, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility and the need for atonement.

he must restore
The Hebrew word for "restore" is "שָׁלַם" (shalam), which means to make whole or to complete. This word is related to "shalom," meaning peace or completeness. Restoration is not merely about returning what was taken but about making amends and restoring relationships. It reflects God's desire for justice and reconciliation, emphasizing that true repentance involves action and restitution.

what he took by robbery
The term "robbery" in Hebrew is "גָּזַל" (gazal), which implies taking something by force or deceit. This highlights the severity of the offense and the violation of trust and community harmony. In the ancient Near Eastern context, robbery was not just a crime against an individual but against the community and God, who is the ultimate owner of all things.

or what he obtained by extortion
"Extortion" in Hebrew is "עָשַׁק" (ashaq), meaning to oppress or exploit. This word conveys the idea of using one's power or position to unjustly take from others. The inclusion of extortion in this verse underscores the broader social implications of sin, where the powerful are called to account for their actions against the vulnerable, reflecting God's heart for justice and protection of the oppressed.

or the deposit entrusted to him
The phrase "deposit entrusted" refers to something given in trust for safekeeping. The Hebrew word "פִּקָּדוֹן" (piqqadon) implies a sacred trust or responsibility. This highlights the importance of faithfulness and integrity in relationships. In biblical times, trust was a cornerstone of community life, and violating that trust was a serious offense, requiring restitution to restore communal harmony.

or the lost property he found
"Lost property" in Hebrew is "אֲבֵדָה" (abedah), which refers to something that has been lost or misplaced. The responsibility to return lost property emphasizes the value of honesty and respect for others' possessions. This principle reflects the broader biblical theme of stewardship, where individuals are called to care for and respect what belongs to others, as a reflection of their respect for God, the ultimate owner of all.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including those in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The people to whom the laws in Leviticus were given, forming the covenant community of God.

3. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites worshiped and where the laws were often taught and practiced.

4. Priests
The mediators between God and the Israelites, responsible for teaching and enforcing the laws.

5. God
The divine lawgiver who established the covenant and provided the laws for His people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Restitution
Restitution is a key aspect of justice and righteousness in God's eyes. It involves acknowledging wrongdoing and taking steps to make amends.

Acknowledging Guilt
Recognizing and confessing one's guilt is the first step toward restoration and reconciliation with both God and others.

Restoration of Relationships
The act of restitution is not just about returning what was taken but also about restoring trust and relationships within the community.

God's Holiness and Justice
God's laws reflect His holy and just nature. As His people, we are called to uphold these values in our interactions with others.

Practical Steps for Believers
Believers today can apply these principles by being honest in their dealings, seeking forgiveness when wrong, and making amends where possible.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of restitution in Leviticus 6:4 reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

2. In what ways can the principles of restitution be applied in modern-day situations where wrongs have been committed?

3. How does the account of Zacchaeus in Luke 19 illustrate the heart of the law found in Leviticus 6:4?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to restore a relationship that has been damaged by wrongdoing?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament build upon the principles of restitution found in the Old Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22
Discusses laws about restitution, emphasizing the importance of making amends for wrongs committed against others.

Numbers 5
Provides further instructions on restitution, highlighting the need for confession and compensation.

Matthew 5
Jesus' teaching on reconciliation, which aligns with the principles of restitution and making things right with others.

Luke 19
The account of Zacchaeus, who exemplifies the act of restitution by returning what he had wrongfully taken.

Ephesians 4
Encourages believers to put off falsehood and speak truthfully, reflecting the heart of the law in Leviticus.