The Law of the Fifth is a principle found within the Mosaic Law, specifically in the context of restitution and offerings. This law is primarily detailed in the books of Leviticus and Numbers, where it outlines the requirement for an additional payment of one-fifth, or 20%, in certain situations involving restitution or redemption.

Biblical References

1. Leviticus 5:16 : "He must make restitution for what he has failed to do in regard to the holy things, adding a fifth of the value to it and giving it to the priest. The priest will then make atonement on his behalf with the ram of the guilt offering, and he will be forgiven."

2. Leviticus 6:5 : "He must make restitution for what he has stolen or taken by extortion, or for what was entrusted to him, or the lost property he found, or whatever it was that he swore falsely about. He must make full restitution, adding a fifth of the value to it, and give it to the owner on the day he presents his guilt offering."

3. Leviticus 27:13, 15, 19, 27, 31 : These verses discuss the redemption of various items dedicated to the Lord, such as animals, houses, and fields. In each case, if the original owner wishes to redeem the item, they must add a fifth to its valuation.

4. Numbers 5:7 : "And he must confess the sin he has committed, make full restitution for his wrong, add a fifth to it, and give it to the one he has wronged."

Context and Application

The Law of the Fifth serves multiple purposes within the Mosaic Law. It acts as a deterrent against sin and wrongdoing by imposing an additional financial penalty. This law underscores the importance of making amends not only to God but also to fellow humans who have been wronged. The requirement to add a fifth to the restitution emphasizes the seriousness of the offense and the need for genuine repentance and reconciliation.

In the context of offerings, the Law of the Fifth applies to the redemption of items dedicated to God. When an individual dedicates something to the Lord and later wishes to redeem it, the addition of a fifth to its value serves as a reminder of the sanctity of vows and the importance of honoring commitments made to God.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the Law of the Fifth highlights the principles of justice, restitution, and holiness. It reflects God's desire for His people to live in right relationship with Him and with one another. The additional fifth serves as a tangible expression of repentance and the cost of sin, pointing to the need for atonement and reconciliation.

Moreover, this law foreshadows the ultimate restitution and redemption found in Jesus Christ. Just as the Law of the Fifth required an additional payment to make things right, Christ's sacrifice on the cross provides the ultimate payment for sin, reconciling humanity to God and restoring what was lost through sin.

Practical Implications

For believers today, the Law of the Fifth serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity, honesty, and making amends. It encourages Christians to take responsibility for their actions, seek forgiveness, and restore relationships with those they have wronged. Additionally, it calls believers to honor their commitments to God, recognizing the cost of redemption and the value of living a life dedicated to Him.