But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.
But (if) he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house. Exodus 22:1-4 prescribes five-fold, four-fold, and two-fold restitution in the different cases of theft. "Seven-fold," therefore, means plenary and perfect restitution, seven being the number for perfection. The thief who robs through hunger has to make restitution to the last penny of his property. Still his need causes pity to be felt for him, and his life is spared.