### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **betsaʻ**, represented by `{{H1215}}`, describes **plunder** or **gain**, which is usually understood as being **unjust**. It appears **23 times** across **23 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning extends to concepts like **covetousness**, **dishonest gain**, **lucre**, and **profit**. While it can occasionally refer to simple profit or benefit, it is most often used to condemn the acquisition of wealth through corrupt and violent means.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical contexts, `{{H1215}}` is overwhelmingly negative. It is a key characteristic to be avoided by leaders; Jethro advises Moses to select rulers who are "hating **covetousness**" [[Exodus 18:21]]. The prophets frequently use the term to decry the moral decay of Israel, where from the least to the greatest, everyone is "given to **covetousness**" [[Jeremiah 6:13]]. This desire for unjust gain is not merely a social problem but a deep-seated issue of the heart that provokes divine judgment, as seen in the warning, "Woe to him that coveteth an evil **covetousness** to his house" [[Habakkuk 2:9]]. In a more neutral sense, it is used to mean "profit" or "advantage," as when Judah asks, "What **profit** is it if we slay our brother?" [[Genesis 37:26]]. In a unique instance, the plunder of Zion's enemies is consecrated as **gain** to the LORD [[Micah 4:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope and source of unjust gain:
* `{{H1214}}` **bâtsaʻ** (gain greedily): This is the primitive root from which **betsaʻ** is derived. It describes the action of plundering or being greedy for gain. Scripture warns that one who is "greedy of **gain**" (`{{H1214}}`, `{{H1215}}`) brings trouble on his own house [[Proverbs 15:27]].
* `{{H7810}}` **shachad** (bribe): This term is often linked to the pursuit of unjust gain. The sons of Samuel turned aside after **lucre** `{{H1215}}` and "took **bribes**" [[1 Samuel 8:3]], perverting judgment.
* `{{H6233}}` **ʻôsheq** (unjust gain): This word specifically denotes gain acquired through injury, fraud, or extortion. A king's character is condemned when his eyes and heart are set on his **covetousness** `{{H1215}}`, shedding innocent blood, and **oppression** [[Jeremiah 22:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1215}}` is significant, serving as a powerful warning against greed.
* **Corruption of the Heart:** The pursuit of **covetousness** is an internal desire that turns the heart away from God. The people may show love with their mouth, but their "heart goeth after their **covetousness**" [[Ezekiel 33:31]]. The psalmist prays to have his heart inclined toward God's testimonies and "not to **covetousness**" [[Psalms 119:36]].
* **A Mark of Corrupt Leadership:** The desire for unjust gain is a sign of failed spiritual and civil leadership. The prophets condemn shepherds who look to their own way, every one for his **gain** [[Isaiah 56:11]], and princes who are like wolves getting "dishonest **gain**" [[Ezekiel 22:27]].
* **The Foundation of Injustice:** The lust for **betsaʻ** is the root of greater sins, including oppression, violence, and the shedding of "innocent **blood**" [[Jeremiah 22:17]]. It is a destructive force that "taketh away the life of the owners thereof" [[Proverbs 1:19]].
* **An Invitation to Divine Wrath:** Scripture clearly states that God judges this sin. The LORD was "wroth" for the "iniquity of his **covetousness**" [[Isaiah 57:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1215}}` **betsaʻ** is a crucial term for understanding the biblical concept of greed. It is far more than a neutral reference to profit; it signifies a destructive and sinful pursuit of gain at the expense of justice, righteousness, and ultimately, one's relationship with God. From corrupt leaders to the inner desires of the heart, the pursuit of **covetousness** is identified as a source of social decay and a reason for divine judgment.
TRV