The term "plundereth" is an archaic form of the verb "plunder," which means to rob or take goods by force, often in the context of war or conflict. In the Bible, plundering is frequently associated with the actions of invading armies or groups who seize the possessions of others, often as a consequence of divine judgment or as part of the spoils of war.

Biblical Context and Usage

Plundering is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where it is often depicted as a consequence of disobedience to God or as a tool of divine retribution. The act of plundering is typically carried out by foreign nations against Israel or by Israel against its enemies, as directed by God.

1. Divine Judgment and Retribution: In many instances, plundering is portrayed as a form of divine judgment against nations or peoples who have turned away from God. For example, in the book of Jeremiah, God declares judgment against Babylon, stating that the nation will be plundered as a consequence of its sins: "Babylon will become a heap of rubble, a haunt of jackals, an object of horror and scorn, without inhabitant" (Jeremiah 51:37).

2. Spoils of War: Plundering is also depicted as a common practice in the context of warfare, where victors would seize the goods and possessions of the defeated. In the book of Joshua, after the fall of Jericho, the Israelites are instructed to take the city's goods as plunder, except for the items devoted to the Lord: "But keep away from the things devoted to destruction, so that you do not covet and take any of them. Otherwise, you will make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble upon it" (Joshua 6:18).

3. Moral and Ethical Considerations: While plundering is often depicted as a part of warfare, the Bible also provides moral and ethical guidelines regarding the treatment of enemies and their possessions. The Israelites are instructed to act justly and to avoid covetousness, as seen in the laws given in Deuteronomy: "When you go to war against your enemies and the LORD your God delivers them into your hands and you take captives, if you notice among the captives a beautiful woman and are attracted to her, you may take her as your wife" (Deuteronomy 21:10-11). This passage reflects the need for restraint and respect for human dignity even in the context of plunder.

4. Prophetic Warnings: The prophets often warned of impending plunder as a consequence of Israel's unfaithfulness. In Isaiah, the prophet speaks of a time when the wealth of nations will be brought to Zion, reversing the fortunes of those who have been plundered: "Your gates will always stand open; they will never be shut, day or night, so that the wealth of the nations may be brought into you, with their kings being led in procession" (Isaiah 60:11).

Theological Implications

The concept of plundering in the Bible serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience, as well as the sovereignty of God over the nations. It underscores the idea that material wealth and possessions are ultimately transient and subject to the will of God. The biblical narrative often uses plundering to illustrate the futility of relying on earthly riches and the importance of seeking spiritual wealth and righteousness.

In summary, "plundereth" in the biblical context is a multifaceted concept that encompasses divine judgment, the realities of ancient warfare, and the ethical considerations of dealing with enemies. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of material possessions and the ultimate authority of God over all human affairs.

The Testament of Asher Concerning Two Faces of vice and virtue.
... Another stealeth, worketh unjustly, plundereth, defraudeth, and withal pitieth the
poor: this, too, hath a twofold aspect, but the whole is evil. ...
/.../the testaments of the twelve patriarchs/x the testament of asher concerning.htm

Homilies of St. John Chrysostom,
... rapine or fraud. For this were not "faith"; this were not "truth." For he
that plundereth must lie and forswear himself. So do not ...
/.../homilies of st john chrysostom.htm

The Enchanted Ground
... The murderer smiteth him that sleeps: the midnight robber plundereth his house that
resteth listlessly on his pillow. Jael smiteth a sleeping Sisera. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/the enchanted ground.htm

Plundereth (1 Occurrence)
...Plundereth (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 21:2 A grievous vision is declared to me; the
treacherous dealer dealeth treacherously, and the spoiler plundereth. ...
/p/plundereth.htm - 6k

Plunderers (9 Occurrences)

/p/plunderers.htm - 9k

Plundering (3 Occurrences)

/p/plundering.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus