### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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."
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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