Exodus 22:27

because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in? And if he cries out to Me, I will hear, for I am compassionate.

Study Bible

for that is his only covering
The Hebrew word for "covering" is "kesut," which implies a garment or a piece of clothing that serves as protection. In ancient Israel, a cloak was not merely an article of clothing but also a vital piece of personal property, often used as a blanket at night. This phrase highlights the essential nature of the cloak for the poor, emphasizing the importance of compassion and justice in God's law. The cloak represents basic human dignity and the necessity of providing for one's fundamental needs.

it is the cloak for his body
The term "cloak" in Hebrew is "simlah," which refers to an outer garment. This garment was multifunctional, serving as both clothing and bedding. The phrase underscores the vulnerability of the individual who possesses nothing else for warmth and protection. In the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, this highlights the social responsibility to care for the less fortunate, reflecting God's heart for justice and mercy.

In what else will he sleep?
This rhetorical question emphasizes the dire situation of the individual who relies on the cloak for warmth during the night. It serves as a reminder of the human condition and the need for empathy and understanding. The question challenges the listener to consider the plight of the poor and to act with kindness and generosity, aligning with the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself.

And if he cries out to Me
The phrase "cries out" is derived from the Hebrew "za'aq," which conveys a deep, earnest plea for help. This reflects the biblical theme that God hears the cries of the oppressed and responds to their suffering. It is a powerful reminder of God's attentiveness to human distress and His willingness to intervene on behalf of those who are wronged or in need.

I will hear
The assurance "I will hear" is a testament to God's faithfulness and His active involvement in the lives of His people. The Hebrew word "shama" implies not just hearing but also understanding and responding. This promise reassures believers of God's constant presence and His commitment to justice, encouraging them to trust in His divine care and provision.

for I am compassionate
The word "compassionate" in Hebrew is "rachum," which is closely related to "racham," meaning mercy or tender love. This attribute of God is central to His character, as seen throughout Scripture. It reflects His deep love and concern for humanity, urging believers to emulate His compassion in their interactions with others. This divine compassion serves as a model for how Christians are called to live, showing mercy and kindness to those in need.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The original audience of the laws given in Exodus, including the commandment in Exodus 22:27, were the Israelites, God's chosen people, who were being instructed on how to live righteously and justly.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai and communicated it to the people.

3. God
The compassionate and just deity who provides these laws to ensure the well-being and fair treatment of all individuals, especially the vulnerable.

4. The Poor
The specific group of people being protected by this law, as they might need to borrow and use their cloak as collateral.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the Law from God, including the commandments found in Exodus.

Teaching Points

Compassionate Justice
God’s law reflects His character, which is both just and compassionate. We are called to emulate this in our dealings with others, especially the vulnerable.

The Importance of Dignity
The command to return a cloak underscores the importance of preserving human dignity. We should ensure that our actions do not strip others of their dignity.

God Hears the Oppressed
God’s promise to hear the cries of those in need assures us that He is attentive to injustice. We should be encouraged to cry out to God in our own times of need and be responsive to the cries of others.

Practical Love
This law is a practical expression of love for one's neighbor. We are called to demonstrate love through tangible actions that meet the needs of others.

Stewardship of Resources
The commandment implies a responsibility to use our resources wisely and generously, ensuring that we do not exploit others for personal gain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commandment in Exodus 22:27 reflect God's character, and how can we apply this understanding in our daily interactions with others?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our actions preserve the dignity of those who are less fortunate?

3. How does the promise that God hears the cries of the oppressed encourage us in our own struggles and in our advocacy for others?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate love and compassion to those in need within our community?

5. How can we be good stewards of our resources to ensure that we are not exploiting others, but rather, helping to uplift them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 24:12-13
This passage reiterates the commandment to return a poor man's cloak by sunset, emphasizing the importance of compassion and justice.

James 2:15-16
These verses in the New Testament echo the call to care for the physical needs of others, highlighting the importance of faith accompanied by action.

Psalm 34:17
This verse speaks of God's attentiveness to the cries of the righteous, similar to His promise to hear the cries of the poor in Exodus 22:27.