restitution

Payment of damages to one who has been wronged. The concept is related to but distinct from restoration, which involves replacement of something that was taken or destroyed. Restitution involves payment over and above the actual loss, analogous to what are today called “punitive” damages (Exod 22:1-15; Lev 6:1-7; Num 5:5-7). For example, a thief who steals an ox or sheep and kills the animal must pay restitution of five oxen or four sheep (Exod 22:1; but cf. Exod 22:4). This principle is reflected in the NT story of Zacchaeus, who pledges to repay fourfold anyone he has defrauded (Luke 19:1-10).