Old Testament
Numbers 5:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
Compare translations
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.
What Numbers 5:7 means
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.
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
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 5:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 5:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.