### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lēistḗs**, represented by `{{G3027}}`, is defined as a **brigand** or **robber**. Derived from a root meaning "to plunder," this term appears **15 times** across **15 unique verses**. It specifically denotes a plunderer, often one who uses violence, rather than a person who steals by stealth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G3027}}` is used to describe figures of significant notoriety and lawlessness. It identifies the two criminals crucified with Jesus as **thieves** ([[Matthew 27:38]]; [[Mark 15:27]]; [[Matthew 27:44]]). The pardoned insurrectionist, Barabbas, is also explicitly called a **robber** [[John 18:40]]. Jesus employs the term in his parable about the man who "fell among **thieves**" on the road to Jericho, who was stripped and wounded [[Luke 10:30]]. The word is also used in Jesus's rebuke of the temple merchants, whom he accuses of turning a house of prayer into a "den of **thieves**" ([[Matthew 21:13]]; [[Mark 11:17]]). During his arrest, Jesus asks the crowd if they have come for him with swords and staves as they would for a **thief** ([[Matthew 26:55]]; [[Luke 22:52]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the actions and environment of a **lēistḗs**:
* `{{G2812}}` **kléptēs**: Defined as a **stealer**, this word for **thief** is used alongside `{{G3027}}` to describe those who enter the sheepfold improperly, contrasting with the true shepherd [[John 10:1]]. It often implies stealth, as in a **thief** who breaks in to steal treasures [[Matthew 6:19]].
* `{{G4693}}` **spḗlaion**: This word for a **cave** or **den** is used to describe the hiding place of brigands. Jesus uses it to condemn the commercial activity in the temple, calling it a "**den** of thieves" [[Mark 11:17]].
* `{{G3162}}` **máchaira**: This term for a **sword** or knife points to the violence associated with a `{{G3027}}`. It is one of the weapons brought by the crowd to arrest Jesus, as if they were pursuing a dangerous **thief** [[Luke 22:52]].
* `{{G3586}}` **xýlon**: Meaning a stick, **club**, or **staff**, this word appears alongside **máchaira** (sword) as a weapon used to capture a **lēistḗs**, highlighting the force expected to be used against such a person [[Mark 14:48]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3027}}` is significant, often symbolizing violent opposition to divine will and order.
* **Spiritual Plunder:** In John's gospel, Jesus uses the term to describe false spiritual leaders who came before him, labeling them "**thieves** and **robbers**" who do not care for the sheep [[John 10:8]]. This frames false teaching as an act of violent spiritual plunder.
* **Desecration of the Holy:** Jesus's charge that the temple has become a "den of **thieves**" is a powerful condemnation of the corruption of worship. It recasts the merchants' actions not as simple business, but as a hostile takeover of a sacred space [[Matthew 21:13]].
* **Image of Lawlessness:** The word is consistently associated with violent criminals worthy of crucifixion [[Matthew 27:38]] and with dangerous men who threaten travelers, as seen in Paul's list of "perils of **robbers**" [[2 Corinthians 11:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3027}}` is a specific and potent term. It goes beyond simple theft to describe a **robber** or **brigand** who plunders openly and violently. This is evident in its application to armed criminals like Barabbas, the men crucified with Jesus, and the aggressors in the parable of the traveler. Theologically, it serves as a metaphor for the desecration of sacred things and for false spiritual leaders who prey upon their followers, making it a powerful symbol of lawlessness and hostile opposition to God.
TRV