Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "steal" refers to the act of taking another person's property without permission or legal right, typically in a secretive manner. The Hebrew word for steal is "ganab" (גנב), and the Greek equivalent is "klepto" (κλέπτω). Both terms convey the idea of theft, deceit, and wrongful acquisition. Biblical References and Context: Stealing is explicitly prohibited in the Bible and is considered a sin against God and one's neighbor. The commandment "You shall not steal" is one of the Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai, as recorded in Exodus 20:15 : "You shall not steal." This commandment underscores the importance of respecting others' property and maintaining integrity in one's dealings. In Leviticus 19:11 , the prohibition against stealing is reiterated alongside other ethical commands: "You must not steal. You must not lie or deceive one another." This verse highlights the interconnectedness of theft with other forms of dishonesty and deceit. The New Testament also addresses the issue of stealing. In Ephesians 4:28 , the Apostle Paul instructs believers: "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need." This passage not only condemns theft but also encourages productive labor and generosity. Moral and Theological Implications: Stealing is seen as a violation of God's law and an affront to His character, which is marked by truth and justice. It disrupts the social order and trust within a community, leading to conflict and harm. The act of stealing is often associated with covetousness, as it involves desiring and taking what belongs to another. The Bible emphasizes restitution and repentance for those who have stolen. In the Old Testament, the law required a thief to make restitution, often by returning more than what was taken (Exodus 22:1-4). This principle underscores the importance of making amends and restoring relationships. Spiritual Lessons and Applications: The prohibition against stealing serves as a reminder of the value of contentment and trust in God's provision. Believers are called to live honestly and to respect the rights and possessions of others. The transformation of a thief into a generous and hardworking individual, as described in Ephesians 4:28, illustrates the power of the Gospel to change hearts and lives. Stealing, in its broader sense, can also refer to taking credit for someone else's work, ideas, or achievements. Christians are encouraged to give honor where it is due and to act with integrity in all areas of life. Conclusion: The biblical teaching on stealing is clear and unequivocal. It is a sin that not only harms others but also damages one's relationship with God. Through repentance, restitution, and a commitment to honest living, individuals can align themselves with God's will and reflect His righteousness in their lives. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A handle; a stale, or stele.2. (v. t.) To take and carry away, feloniously; to take without right or leave, and with intent to keep wrongfully; as, to steal the personal goods of another. 3. (v. t.) To withdraw or convey clandestinely (reflexive); hence, to creep furtively, or to insinuate. 4. (v. t.) To gain by insinuating arts or covert means. 5. (v. t.) To get into one's power gradually and by imperceptible degrees; to take possession of by a gradual and imperceptible appropriation; -- with away. 6. (v. t.) To accomplish in a concealed or unobserved manner; to try to carry out secretly; as, to steal a look. 7. (v. i.) To practice, or be guilty of, theft; to commit larceny or theft. 8. (v. i.) To withdraw, or pass privily; to slip in, along, or away, unperceived; to go or come furtively. Greek 2813. klepto -- to steal ... 2812, 2813. klepto. 2814 . to steal. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: klepto Phonetic Spelling: (klep'-to) Short Definition: I steal Definition: I steal ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2813.htm - 7k 5195. hubrizo -- to run riot, to outrage, insult Strong's Hebrew 1589. ganab -- to steal... 1588, 1589. ganab. 1590 . to steal. Transliteration: ganab Phonetic Spelling: (gaw-nab') Short Definition: steal. Word Origin a prim. ... /hebrew/1589.htm - 6k 1497. gazal -- to tear away, seize, rob Library Thou Shalt not Steal. Whether it is Lawful to Steal through Stress of Need? "I'll Never Steal Again --If Father Kills Me for It" Thou Shalt not Steal. The Approbation of Goodness is not the Love of It. You Chose a Bad Introducer. If You Will Take My Counsel, Both You ... Matt. xxviii. 11-14. The Young Martyr You Observe How He Treats Ambrose. First, He Calls Him a Crow and ... From the Seventh to the End of the Tenth Commandment Thesaurus Steal (29 Occurrences)... 2. (vt) To take and carry away, feloniously; to take without right or leave, and with intent to keep wrongfully; as, to steal the personal goods of another. ... /s/steal.htm - 16k Thief (41 Occurrences) Commit (142 Occurrences) Pilfer (2 Occurrences) Stole (9 Occurrences) Evidence (41 Occurrences) Thieves (25 Occurrences) Murder (41 Occurrences) Destroy (379 Occurrences) Kill (310 Occurrences) Resources What is sacrilege? What does it mean to be sacrilegious? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that “where your treasure is there will your heart be also”? | GotQuestions.org How many children did King David have? | GotQuestions.org Steal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Steal (29 Occurrences)Matthew 6:19 Matthew 6:20 Matthew 19:18 Matthew 27:64 Mark 10:19 Luke 18:20 John 10:10 John 12:6 Romans 2:21 Romans 2:22 Romans 13:9 Ephesians 4:28 Genesis 31:27 Genesis 31:30 Genesis 44:8 Exodus 20:15 Exodus 22:1 Leviticus 19:11 Deuteronomy 5:19 2 Samuel 19:3 2 Samuel 19:41 Psalms 69:4 Psalms 104:22 Proverbs 6:30 Proverbs 30:9 Jeremiah 7:9 Jeremiah 23:30 Jeremiah 49:9 Obadiah 1:5 Subtopics Embezzlement: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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