Old Testament
Numbers 5:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 5:7, the instruction is clear: when someone commits a sin against another person, they must first acknowledge and confess their wrongdoing.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
They must confess the sin they committed, then pay back the full amount they owe plus an additional 5th of its value, giving it to the person they wronged.
Then they shall confess their sin which they have done: and he shall recompense his trespass with the principal thereof, and add unto it the fifth part thereof, and give it unto him against whom he hath trespassed.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 5:7, the instruction is clear: when someone commits a sin against another person, they must first acknowledge and confess their wrongdoing. This act of confession is crucial as it recognizes the harm done. Following this, the person must make restitution by returning what they took or damaged, plus an additional fifth of its value. This means if someone stole $100, they would need to return $100 and pay an extra $20, totaling $120. This principle emphasizes accountability and the importance of making things right with those we have wronged. It reflects a broader moral teaching about justice and the need for honesty in our relationships. The act of confession and restitution not only seeks to restore the relationship but also serves as a reminder of the consequences of our actions. It encourages individuals to take responsibility for their mistakes and to actively work towards repairing any damage caused by their actions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 5:7 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of owning up to our mistakes and making amends. In our daily lives, we should strive to acknowledge when we have wronged others and take steps to rectify the situation, fostering healthier relationships and a sense of integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 5:7 say about confession?
Numbers 5:7 emphasizes the importance of confessing one's sins. It instructs individuals to acknowledge their wrongdoing before making restitution. This act of confession is crucial as it recognizes the harm done to others and is the first step towards repairing relationships.
How does restitution work according to Numbers 5:7?
Restitution in Numbers 5:7 requires a person who has wronged another to repay what they took or damaged, plus an additional fifth of its value. For example, if someone stole $100, they would need to return that amount and pay an extra $20, totaling $120. This principle underscores the importance of accountability.
Why is accountability important in Numbers 5:7?
Accountability is vital in Numbers 5:7 as it encourages individuals to take responsibility for their actions. By confessing and making restitution, a person acknowledges the impact of their wrongdoing and actively works to repair the damage caused, fostering healthier relationships and promoting justice.
What lessons can we learn from Numbers 5:7?
Numbers 5:7 teaches us the significance of owning up to our mistakes and making amends. It encourages us to acknowledge when we have wronged others and take steps to rectify the situation, which can lead to stronger relationships and a greater sense of integrity in our lives.
The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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