Numbers 5:7 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The guilty person must confess and repay the full amount of harm plus one-fifth to the wronged party.
The Context of Numbers 5:7
Confession and restitution are required for wrongdoing.
What Does Numbers 5:7 Mean?
Confession precedes restoration. The wrongdoer must acknowledge their sin and then make full restitution—the 'principal' (original amount) plus twenty percent. This structure values both honesty and generous repair, going beyond mere replacement of what was lost.
The requirement to give to the wronged person, not to a central authority, emphasizes relational reconciliation. The added fifth shows that justice in God's system includes compensation that acknowledges the harm and demonstrates genuine commitment to restoration.
Numbers 5:7 in the Original Language
principal (קֶרֶן, keren) literally means 'horn' or 'capital,' used for the main amount owed
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 5:7
What does Numbers 5:7 mean?
The guilty person must confess and repay the full amount of harm plus one-fifth to the wronged party.
What is the context of Numbers 5:7?
Confession and restitution are required for wrongdoing.