### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâzêl**, represented by `{{H1498}}`, refers to **robbery** or, more concretely, plunder or a **thing taken away by violence**. It is derived from the root word `{{H1497}}` (gâzal). Though a potent term, it appears only **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, each time highlighting a severe transgression.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1498}}` consistently denotes an act of unjust seizure that is condemned by God. In Leviticus, taking something from a neighbor by violence is listed as a trespass against the LORD [[Leviticus 6:2]]. The prophets also speak against it, with the LORD declaring "I hate **robbery** for burnt offering" [[Isaiah 61:8]], positioning it as an offense that corrupts worship. The Psalms warn against placing trust in wealth gained through **robbery** [[Psalms 62:10]]. Furthermore, it is described as a sin of the people of the land, who exercised **robbery** and oppressed the poor and needy [[Ezekiel 22:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the sin of unjust acquisition:
* `{{H1497}}` **gâzal**: This is the primitive root from which `{{H1498}}` is derived. It means to pluck off, strip, or rob. It is used to describe the act of spoiling someone, such as delivering the one "that is spoiled" from the hand of the oppressor [[Jeremiah 21:12]].
* `{{H6231}}` **ʻâshaq**: This term for oppression, meaning to press upon, defraud, or violate, is frequently linked with robbery. It appears alongside `{{H1498}}` to describe deceiving a neighbor [[Leviticus 6:2]] and the general oppression exercised by the people of the land [[Ezekiel 22:29]].
* `{{H6233}}` **ʻôsheq**: This noun signifies injury, unjust gain, or oppression. It is paired directly with `{{H1498}}` in the warning, "Trust not in **oppression** (ʻôsheq), and become not vain in **robbery** (gâzêl)" [[Psalms 62:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1498}}` is significant, underscoring God's demand for justice.
* **A Trespass Against God:** The act of robbery is not merely a crime against another person but is explicitly defined as a trespass "against the LORD" [[Leviticus 6:2]], demonstrating that social sin has vertical, divine consequences.
* **Contradiction to True Worship:** God's hatred for "robbery for burnt offering" shows that religious acts are meaningless when founded upon injustice [[Isaiah 61:8]]. Righteousness must precede ritual.
* **Symptom of Social Decay:** The practice of robbery is cited as a key sin of a corrupt society that has turned from God. It is linked to the oppression of the most vulnerable, including the poor, needy, and stranger [[Ezekiel 22:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1498}}` defines more than simple theft; it represents violent and exploitative plunder. It is unequivocally condemned in legal, prophetic, and wisdom contexts as a violation of divine law and social justice. The term serves as a stark reminder that God's covenant and blessing are tied to righteousness, and He stands in opposition to any gain acquired through violence and oppression.
TRV