### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun κλέμμα (klémma - `{{G2809}}`) is derived from the verb κλέπτω (kleptō - `{{G2813}}`), meaning "to steal." While its primary etymological sense refers to "the thing stolen" (a result of the action), its usage in the New Testament, as indicated by its definition, extends to denote "the act of stealing" itself, i.e., "theft." This semantic range encompasses the illicit taking of another's property, characterized by stealth, deception, and a fundamental disregard for established rights and moral boundaries. It signifies an act of appropriation without permission, often involving cunning and secrecy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term κλέμμα (klémma - `{{G2809}}`) appears exclusively twice in the New Testament, both instances occurring within the book of Revelation:
* [[Revelation 9:21]]: "nor did they repent of their murders nor of their sorceries nor of their sexual immorality nor of their *thefts*."
In this passage, κλέμμα is listed among a litany of grave sins—murders, sorceries (pharmakeia), and sexual immorality (porneia)—from which humanity refuses to repent even after experiencing the devastating judgments unleashed by the sixth trumpet. The inclusion of "thefts" in this catalogue underscores its severity in the divine estimation, placing it alongside offenses that directly violate life, spiritual purity, and physical integrity. The context is one of profound spiritual rebellion and moral depravity, where human hearts remain hardened against God despite overwhelming evidence of His power and righteous indignation. The persistence of κλέμμα in such a list highlights a pervasive societal and individual disregard for justice and the well-being of others, indicative of a fallen nature that prioritizes selfish gain over divine command and communal harmony.
### Related Words & Concepts
The conceptual field surrounding κλέμμα (klémma - `{{G2809}}`) is rich, drawing from its etymological roots and broader biblical themes:
* **κλέπτω (kleptō - `{{G2813}}`):** The foundational verb, meaning "to steal." This is the action from which κλέμμα derives. The Eighth Commandment, "You shall not steal" ([[Exodus 20:15]]; [[Deuteronomy 5:19]]), uses this verb in the Septuagint.
* **κλέπτης (kleptēs - `{{G2812}}`):** The noun for "thief," the person who commits κλέμμα. Jesus warns against thieves ([[Matthew 6:19-20]]), and Paul lists thieves among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God ([[1 Corinthians 6:10]]).
* **Covetousness:** Theft is often a manifestation of covetousness (ἐπιθυμία - epithymia or πλεονεξία - pleonexia), a desire for what belongs to another, which is forbidden by the Tenth Commandment ([[Exodus 20:17]]).
* **Dishonesty and Injustice:** κλέμμα stands in direct opposition to principles of honesty, integrity, and justice. It violates the rights of others and undermines trust within community.
* **Honest Labor:** The New Testament contrasts theft with the call for believers to work diligently with their own hands, not only to meet their needs but also to have something to share with those in need ([[Ephesians 4:28]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κλέμμα (klémma - `{{G2809}}`) is profound, touching upon several core doctrines:
* **Violation of God's Law:** Theft is a direct transgression of the Eighth Commandment, "You shall not steal." This commandment is not merely a legal proscription but an expression of God's character and His desire for humanity to live in righteousness and mutual respect. It reflects the principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself ([[Leviticus 19:18]]; [[Matthew 22:39]]), as stealing fundamentally harms the neighbor.
* **Manifestation of Sinful Nature:** As seen in [[Revelation 9:21]], κλέμμα is a symptom of an unregenerate heart, indicative of a deeper spiritual rebellion against God. It signifies a failure to acknowledge God as the ultimate provider and owner of all things, resorting to illicit means for personal gain.
* **Disruption of Divine Order:** God is a God of order, justice, and provision. Theft disrupts this divine order by violating property rights, fostering distrust, and creating social instability. It is an act of injustice that corrodes the fabric of community.
* **Call to Repentance and Restitution:** For believers, the condemnation of κλέμμα implies a call to repentance. True repentance for theft often includes not only a change of heart but also restitution, making amends for the wrong committed, as exemplified by Zacchaeus ([[Luke 19:8]]). This act of restitution demonstrates the practical outworking of faith and a commitment to righteousness.
* **Contrast with Christian Ethics:** The New Testament consistently promotes honesty, generosity, and diligent labor as hallmarks of Christian conduct, starkly contrasting with the practice of theft. Believers are called to be above reproach in their financial dealings and to be givers rather than takers.
### Summary
κλέμμα (klémma - `{{G2809}}`) denotes "theft" or "the act of stealing," deriving from the verb κλέπτω (kleptō - `{{G2813}}`). Its two occurrences in [[Revelation 9:21]] are highly significant, presenting it as a grave sin alongside murder, sorcery, and sexual immorality, indicative of humanity's unrepentant moral depravity in the face of divine judgment. Theologically, κλέμμα represents a direct violation of God's Eighth Commandment, an act stemming from covetousness and a lack of love for one's neighbor. It underscores the pervasive nature of sin and humanity's rebellion against God's righteous standards. In contrast to such transgression, biblical ethics call for honest labor, generosity, and respect for others' property, emphasizing that true repentance involves a turning away from such practices and a commitment to living justly and righteously before God and humanity.
TRV