Exodus 22:4 Meaning and Explanation
“If the theft be certainly found in his hand alive, whether it be ox, or ass, or sheep; he shall restore double.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →When stolen livestock is recovered intact, the thief restores twice the value.
The Context of Exodus 22:4
Penalties vary based on whether stolen property can be recovered.
What Does Exodus 22:4 Mean?
If stolen property is found still in the thief's possession and alive, the recovery is straightforward. The thief pays double the value as a penalty for the offense.
This penalty is less severe than the five-fold or four-fold penalty in verse 1. The difference reflects that here the stolen item is recovered, whereas verse 1 implies the animal was killed or permanently lost.
Exodus 22:4 in the Original Language
mimtza (מִמְצָא), 'found' — discovered; indicates discovery in the thief's hands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 22:4
What does Exodus 22:4 mean?
When stolen livestock is recovered intact, the thief restores twice the value.
What is the context of Exodus 22:4?
Penalties vary based on whether stolen property can be recovered.