Leviticus 6:4
Then it shall be, because he hath sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found,
Leviticus 6:4
This verse describes the concrete remedy for sins of theft, deceit, or lost-and-found wrongdoing: restoration of what was taken or the misused item, including the lost property found and any deceit involved. The idea is not merely confession but tangible restitution. The requirement to restore and then add a fifth part (20%) elevates the level of accountability. It emphasizes that sin disrupts others’ livelihoods and requires material repair to restore rightful ownership and peace in the community. The passage prescribes a process that integrates ethical action with liturgical life: the offender must acknowledge the wrong and then make reparations, aligning actions with worship and fellowship.
Restitution as a cornerstone of atonement in this setting demonstrates that forgiveness in the biblical sense often involves repairing the damage caused by sin. It underscores God’s justice and mercy—God desires reconciliation that includes material and relational restoration. The 20% penalty highlights the seriousness of the offense and the cost of repair, pointing forward to the costly atonement in later biblical revelation.
If you’ve harmed someone financially or betrayed trust, make amends beyond mere apologies. Reimburse, compensate, or replace what was damaged, plus the added portion required. This model can guide workplace ethics, neighborhood relations, and family disputes. The principle is accountability coupled with generosity in restoring balance. If direct restitution isn’t possible, seek fair alternatives and engage in reparative acts that honor the injured party.
Cross-References: Exodus 22:1–4; Luke 19:8; Romans 12:17–21