The Greek word klémma, represented by G2809, is a term for theft. Derived from κλέπτω, it refers to the act of stealing or the thing stolen. It is a highly specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, yet its context gives it significant weight.
The sole use of G2809 is found in Revelation 9:21. In this passage, it appears in a list of serious sins that people did not repent of, even after enduring divine judgments. The verse states, "Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts" Revelation 9:21. This singular mention places theft alongside other grave offenses as an indicator of a hardened and unrepentant heart.
The context of Revelation 9:21 links G2809 directly with several other significant words for sin:
- G5408 phónos (murder): Defined as murder or slaughter, this term is frequently listed alongside other sins that proceed from the heart, as noted in Matthew 15:19 and Mark 7:21.
- G5331 pharmakeía (sorcery, witchcraft): This word describes medication, magic, or witchcraft. It is cited as a means by which "all nations were deceived" Revelation 18:23 and is listed as a work of idolatry Galatians 5:20.
- G4202 porneía (fornication): This term for harlotry, adultery, or incest is condemned throughout the New Testament. It is described as a "work of the flesh" Galatians 5:19 and a sin against one's own body 1 Corinthians 6:18.
The theological importance of G2809 is derived entirely from its powerful context.
- An Indicator of Unrepentance: The primary significance of theft in its only biblical appearance is its role in a list of sins from which mankind refused to turn. It exemplifies a deliberate persistence in sin despite judgment Revelation 9:21.
- Equated with Grave Sins: By being listed with murder G5408, sorcery G5331, and fornication G4202, the act of theft is elevated from a mere property crime to a serious moral and spiritual failing that characterizes a life opposed to God.
- A Sin of the Heart: While G2809 itself is not in the passage, its associated sins of murder and fornication are explicitly said to "proceed out of the heart" Matthew 15:19, suggesting that theft is likewise an external act rooted in internal corruption.
In summary, G2809 provides a focused and potent definition of theft. Though used only once, its placement in scripture is unforgettable. It is not presented as an isolated or minor infraction but as a foundational element of a sinful and unrepentant nature, standing alongside murder, sorcery, and sexual immorality as evidence of a heart turned away from God.
TRV