The Greek word klopḗ, represented by G2829, is derived from κλέπτω and directly translates to stealing or theft. It is a specific term that appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Though its usage is rare, its context is highly significant, identifying theft as a fundamental moral transgression.
In its biblical appearances, G2829 is always found within a list of sins that originate from the human heart. In Matthew 15:19, thefts are listed among other evils like "murders, adulteries, fornications, false witness, blasphemies" that proceed from the heart and defile a person. Similarly, Mark 7:22 includes thefts in a catalogue of vices that come from within, such as "covetousness, wickedness, deceit," and "blasphemy."
Several related words appear alongside G2829, illustrating the broader context of sins that arise from a corrupt heart:
- G5408 phónos (murder): Defined as murder or slaughter, it is listed with theft as an evil that proceeds from the heart Matthew 15:19.
- G3430 moicheía (adultery): This word for adultery is consistently grouped with other sins of the flesh and heart, appearing alongside theft in the list of what defiles a person Matthew 15:19.
- G4124 pleonexía (covetousness): Meaning avarice or greediness, this term is explicitly linked with theft in the list of sins that come from within a person Mark 7:22.
- G1388 dólos (deceit): This word for a trick or wile is another internal corruption listed with thefts as a source of defilement Mark 7:22.
The theological weight of G2829 comes from its placement and association.
- Origin in the Heart: Both occurrences explicitly state that theft is not merely an external act but a sin that proceeds out of the heart (Matthew 15:19, Mark 7:22). This frames stealing as a matter of internal character and desire, not just circumstance.
- A Source of Defilement: The context of both passages is a teaching on what truly defiles a person. By including theft in these lists, Scripture identifies it as a serious transgression that corrupts an individual from the inside out.
- Association with Grave Sins: Theft is consistently categorized with other severe moral failings, including murder, adultery, and blasphemy. This classification underscores its gravity as a violation of divine and social law.
In summary, G2829 provides a clear and specific term for theft. While used only twice, its context is profound. It is not treated as a minor offense but is presented as a fundamental sin that stems from the corruption of the human heart. Its inclusion alongside sins like murder and adultery establishes theft as an act that seriously defiles a person before God.
TRV