Deuteronomy 24:13

KJV

In any case thou shalt deliver him the pledge again when the sun goeth down, that he may sleep in his own raiment, and bless thee: and it shall be righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God.

KJV (with Strong's)

In any case {H7725} thou shalt deliver {H7725} him the pledge {H5667} again {H7725} when the sun {H8121} goeth down {H935}, that he may sleep {H7901} in his own raiment {H8008}, and bless {H1288} thee: and it shall be righteousness {H6666} unto thee before {H6440} the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

rather, you must restore the pledged item at sunset; then he will go to sleep wearing his garment and bless you. This will be an upright deed of yours before ADONAI your God.

Berean Standard Bible

be sure to return it to him by sunset, so that he may sleep in his own cloak and bless you, and this will be credited to you as righteousness before the LORD your God.

American Standard Version

thou shalt surely restore to him the pledge when the sun goeth down, that he may sleep in his garment, and bless thee: and it shall be righteousness unto thee before Jehovah thy God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 24:13 presents a profound legal and ethical injunction within the Mosaic Law, mandating the compassionate return of a poor person's outer garment, taken as a pledge for a loan, before sunset. This ensures the borrower has essential covering for warmth and sleep, thereby preventing severe hardship and preserving their dignity. The verse elevates this act of mercy beyond mere legal compliance, declaring it to be an act of "righteousness" in the sight of the LORD God, underscoring the divine value placed on practical compassion for the vulnerable.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into a broader tapestry of social and ethical legislation found in Deuteronomy chapters 23-25, which outlines the conduct expected of Israel as a covenant community in the Promised Land. Specifically, [Deuteronomy 24:10-13](/deuteronomy/24-10-13 "Deuteronomy 24:10-13 - Laws concerning pledges") forms a distinct unit addressing the regulations for taking pledges for loans. The preceding verses in this section (e.g., [Deuteronomy 24:6](/deuteronomy/24-6 "Deuteronomy 24:6 - Prohibition against taking millstones as pledge")) prohibit the taking of essential livelihood tools (like millstones) as collateral, and [Deuteronomy 24:10-11](/deuteronomy/24-10-11 "Deuteronomy 24:10-11 - Lender's conduct regarding pledges") dictates that a lender must not forcibly enter a borrower's house to seize a pledge but must allow the borrower to bring it out. Deuteronomy 24:13 serves as the culminating point of these pledge laws, emphasizing the extraordinary humanitarian requirement concerning the return of an outer garment, highlighting God's meticulous concern for the well-being and dignity of the most vulnerable members of society.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, including Israel, borrowing and lending were common economic activities, often necessitating pledges or collateral. For the impoverished, their outer garment (Hebrew: _śimlāh_) was not merely clothing but a multi-functional and often their most valuable possession. It served as a cloak during the day, a blanket at night, and sometimes even a makeshift bed or shelter. To retain this garment overnight, especially in the often-chilly desert climate, would expose the borrower to extreme discomfort, potential illness, and a profound loss of dignity, exacerbating their already precarious situation. This law stands in stark contrast to the often exploitative and harsh lending practices prevalent in other ancient cultures, where lenders held absolute rights over collateral. The Mosaic law uniquely prioritizes human welfare and dignity over the lender's security, reflecting a divine standard of justice and compassion for the covenant people.

* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 24:13 powerfully contributes to several foundational themes running through Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it exemplifies **Divine Compassion and Justice**, revealing God's profound empathy for the poor and marginalized and His expectation that His people mirror His character by extending mercy and equity. This echoes the broader call for justice found throughout the law, as seen in passages like [Exodus 22:25-27](/exodus/22-25-27 "Exodus 22:25-27 - Laws concerning loans and pledges for the poor"). Secondly, the verse underscores the theme of **Practical Righteousness**. It defines righteousness not merely as adherence to ritual or belief, but as tangible, active deeds of kindness and social justice, particularly towards the vulnerable. The explicit declaration that such an act "shall be righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God" elevates ethical conduct to a spiritual plane, directly linking one's standing with God to their treatment of others, a principle reiterated in [Deuteronomy 6:25](/deuteronomy/6-25 "Deuteronomy 6:25 - Righteousness through obedience"). Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Covenant Community Responsibility**, where the collective well-being of all members, especially the most vulnerable, is a shared concern and a direct reflection of the community's faithfulness to God's covenant.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Pledge (Hebrew, _ʿăbôwṭ'_):** This term (H5667) refers to an item given as security for a loan, a pawn. In the context of ancient Israel, it could be anything from tools to clothing. The law in [Deuteronomy 24:10-13](/deuteronomy/24-10-13 "Deuteronomy 24:10-13 - Regulations for taking pledges") specifically addresses the pledge of an outer garment, which was often the only valuable possession of a poor person. The very specific instruction to return it daily underscores the temporary nature of the lender's right to the pledge and the paramount importance of the borrower's basic human needs over the lender's security.
* **Raiment (Hebrew, _salmâh'_):** This word (H8008), a transposition of _śimlāh_, refers to the outer garment or cloak. As noted in the context, this was a multi-purpose item serving as clothing during the day, a blanket at night, and sometimes even a bed. The command to return it ensures the borrower can "sleep in his own raiment," highlighting its essential function for warmth, comfort, and dignity, especially in the cool desert nights. The law prioritizes human life and well-being over financial gain, demonstrating a profound understanding of the debtor's daily struggle.
* **Righteousness (Hebrew, _tsᵉdâqâh'_):** This crucial term (H6666) signifies more than mere legal rectitude; it encompasses rightness, justice, equity, and charitable action. In this context, _tsᵉdâqâh_ is not just about avoiding wrongdoing but actively doing good, specifically showing mercy and compassion to the poor. The declaration that this act "shall be righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God" elevates practical compassion to a divine standard, indicating that God Himself views such actions as morally upright and pleasing in His sight, linking ethical behavior directly to one's spiritual standing and relationship with the divine (H3068, H430).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In any case thou shalt deliver him the pledge again when the sun goeth down":** This clause establishes the strict temporal requirement for returning the pledge. The phrase "in any case" (derived from H7725, _shûwb_, meaning "to turn back" or "again") emphasizes the non-negotiable and certain nature of the command. The return must occur "when the sun goeth down" (H8121, H935), indicating a daily obligation if the garment was taken as collateral, ensuring the borrower is not deprived of it overnight. This highlights the law's focus on immediate, practical relief and protection for the debtor.
* **"that he may sleep in his own raiment, and bless thee":** This segment reveals the dual purpose and positive outcome of the command. The primary purpose is humanitarian: to allow the poor borrower to use their essential outer garment (H8008) for warmth and shelter during the night (H7901, _shâkab_, "to lie down" or "sleep"). The secondary outcome is that the borrower will "bless thee" (H1288, _bârak_, "to bless" or "congratulate")—the lender. This blessing is not a mere formality but an authentic expression of gratitude and well-wishing, acknowledging the lender's mercy and upholding the dignity of the borrower. It suggests a reciprocal relationship where compassion fosters goodwill and positive human connection.
* **"and it shall be righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God":** This final, pivotal clause provides the profound theological justification and motivation for the command. The act of returning the pledge is not just a social nicety or legal compliance; it is explicitly declared as "righteousness" (H6666, _tsᵉdâqâh_) in the eyes of God (H3068, H430). The phrase "before the LORD thy God" (H6440, _pânîym_, "face" or "presence") signifies that this act is observed and valued directly by the divine. It transforms a simple transaction into a spiritual act, demonstrating that ethical treatment of others, especially the vulnerable, is integral to one's relationship with God and is a pathway to divine favor and approval.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 24:13 employs several effective literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Legal Precedent**, establishing a clear and binding rule for a specific social situation, which serves as a model for ethical conduct within the covenant community. This is profoundly reinforced by **Divine Mandate**, as the command is presented not merely as human wisdom but as a direct instruction from God, underscored by the weighty phrase "before the LORD thy God." The verse also utilizes **Conditional Blessing**, implying that the act of returning the pledge will result in the borrower's blessing upon the lender, and more significantly, in the lender's act being counted as righteousness by God. This provides a powerful spiritual and social incentive for compliance. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Ethical Imperative**, where the law is not just about punitive measures for transgression but about actively fostering a just and compassionate society. The specific focus on "raiment" functions as **Metonymy**, where the part (the garment) stands for the whole (the basic needs, comfort, and dignity of the poor person), emphasizing the profound impact of this seemingly small act. The vivid imagery of the "sun goeth down" creates a sense of urgency and highlights the immediate, practical need.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 24:13 profoundly illustrates God's character as a compassionate and just sovereign who prioritizes the well-being and dignity of the vulnerable over strict economic gain. This divine concern for the poor and marginalized is a consistent thread throughout Scripture, revealing that true piety is inextricably linked to practical acts of mercy and justice. The declaration that returning the pledge is "righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God" elevates social ethics to a theological imperative, demonstrating that our treatment of others, especially those in need, directly reflects our relationship with God and is a measure of our faithfulness. This principle serves as a foundational ethic for the covenant community, reminding believers across all ages that genuine faith is active in love and compassion, shaping both individual conduct and societal structures.

* [Exodus 22:26-27](/exodus/22-26-27 "Exodus 22:26-27 - Returning a neighbor's garment taken as pledge")
* [Proverbs 19:17](/proverbs/19-17 "Proverbs 19:17 - Lending to the poor is lending to the Lord")
* [James 2:15-16](/james/2-15-16 "James 2:15-16 - Faith without works is dead")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 24:13 transcends its ancient context to offer timeless principles for ethical living and compassionate engagement in all societies. It challenges us to examine our own financial practices, business dealings, and personal interactions, asking whether we prioritize human dignity and basic needs over profit, convenience, or legalistic adherence. The verse calls us to an active, not passive, form of righteousness – one that involves tangible acts of mercy and consideration, especially towards those who are struggling or vulnerable. It reminds us that our actions towards others are not unseen by God; indeed, they are weighed and counted as righteousness or its opposite. This compels us to cultivate a heart of empathy, to seek out opportunities to alleviate hardship, and to ensure that our pursuit of justice is always tempered by compassion, reflecting the very character of the God we serve. In a world often driven by self-interest, this ancient law serves as a powerful reminder that true flourishing, both individual and communal, is found in upholding the dignity of every person.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be inadvertently depriving others of their "raiment" today, whether literally or figuratively, through my financial or social practices?**
* **How does the concept of "righteousness" in Deuteronomy 24:13 challenge my understanding of what it means to be truly righteous before God, moving beyond mere adherence to rules?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure that my interactions, especially in financial or power dynamics, consistently prioritize the dignity and basic needs of others?**
* **How does the borrower's "blessing" upon the lender in this verse motivate me to act with greater compassion and generosity in my daily life, seeking not just compliance but genuine goodwill?**

### FAQ
**Does this law apply only to physical garments, or does it have broader implications for modern financial practices?**

Answer: While Deuteronomy 24:13 specifically addresses the taking of an outer garment as a pledge, its underlying principle has profound and broad implications for modern financial practices. The law's core intent is to prevent the exploitation and undue hardship of the poor and vulnerable, ensuring that even in debt, their fundamental human dignity and basic needs are protected. In contemporary terms, this could apply to predatory lending practices, excessive interest rates, or collateral requirements that strip individuals of essential assets, such as a home, transportation, or tools necessary for their livelihood, without providing humane alternatives. The spirit of the law calls for ethical lending, compassionate debt collection, and a societal commitment to ensuring that no one is deprived of basic necessities, even when facing financial difficulties. It encourages systems that balance legitimate business interests with a deep concern for human well-being, reflecting God's heart for justice and mercy, and reminding us that our financial dealings are observed [before the LORD your God](/deuteronomy/24-13 "Deuteronomy 24:13 - Righteousness before God").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 24:13, with its emphasis on compassionate care for the poor and the vulnerable, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest expression in Jesus Christ. While not a direct prophecy, this law embodies the very heart of God's character that Jesus perfectly revealed. Jesus consistently championed the cause of the marginalized, healed the sick, fed the hungry, and taught radical generosity, declaring that acts of mercy shown to "the least of these" are considered as acts done to Him directly, as powerfully articulated in [Matthew 25:40](/matthew/25-40 "Matthew 25:40 - Serving the least of these"). He himself became poor for our sake ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's poverty for our riches")), embodying the ultimate act of self-giving to restore humanity's dignity and provide true spiritual "raiment" for our souls. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Christ fulfilled the righteousness demanded by the law, not merely by adhering to its letter, but by embodying its spirit of sacrificial love and mercy. His new covenant calls believers not just to return a garment, but to actively clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and visit the imprisoned ([Matthew 25:35-36](/matthew/25-35-36 "Matthew 25:35-36 - The works of mercy")), demonstrating a righteousness that flows from a transformed heart and actively seeks the welfare of others, reflecting the boundless compassion of the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 4:27

Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity.

Deuteronomy 6:25

And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.

Exodus 22:26

If thou at all take thy neighbour's raiment to pledge, thou shalt deliver it unto him by that the sun goeth down:

Exodus 22:27

For that [is] his covering only, it [is] his raiment for his skin: wherein shall he sleep? and it shall come to pass, when he crieth unto me, that I will hear; for I [am] gracious.

Deuteronomy 24:15

At his day thou shalt give [him] his hire, neither shall the sun go down upon it; for he [is] poor, and setteth his heart upon it: lest he cry against thee unto the LORD, and it be sin unto thee.

Ezekiel 33:15

[If] the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die.

Psalms 106:30

Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and [so] the plague was stayed.