### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gannâb**, represented by `{{H1590}}`, is defined as a **stealer; thief**. It is derived from the root verb `gânab` and appears 17 times in 17 unique verses. The term is used to identify an individual who steals, and its context often carries significant legal, moral, and prophetic weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law, `{{H1590}}` is used to establish specific regulations and consequences for theft. If a **thief** is found `breaking up` `{{H4290}}` and is killed in the act, no blood is shed for him [[Exodus 22:2]]. However, if a **thief** is found, he is required to pay double [[Exodus 22:7]]. The term is also used metaphorically to denote shame and corruption. Israel is said to be ashamed "as the **thief** is ashamed when he is found" [[Jeremiah 2:26]], and corrupt leaders are condemned as "companions of **thieves**" [[Isaiah 1:23]]. In prophetic imagery, an invading army moves with stealth, entering homes "like a **thief**" [[Joel 2:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of theft and its associated concepts:
* `{{H1589}}` **gânab**: This is the primitive root from which **gannâb** is derived, meaning **to thieve (literally or figuratively); by implication, to deceive**. It is used in the command, "Thou shalt not **steal**" [[Exodus 20:15]].
* `{{H4290}}` **machtereth**: Meaning **a burglary; breaking up**, this word describes the specific act a thief might commit and is used directly in conjunction with `{{H1590}}` in the law [[Exodus 22:2]].
* `{{H2270}}` **châbêr**: This word for an **associate; companion** is used to link corrupt princes with thieves, highlighting the social dimension of injustice [[Isaiah 1:23]].
* `{{H7703}}` **shâdad**: Defined as a **robber, spoil(-er)**, this term appears alongside **thieves** to describe those who come by night to plunder and ravage [[Obadiah 1:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1590}}` is significant, highlighting theft as a violation of divine and social order.
* **Breach of Covenant:** To be a **thief**, or to consent with one, is a direct violation of God's law. It is listed alongside murder and adultery as a grievous sin ([[Jeremiah 7:9]], [[Psalms 50:18]]).
* **Social Injustice:** The term is connected to the corruption of leaders who fail to care for the vulnerable. The "princes" who are "companions of **thieves**" are the same ones who do not judge the fatherless or hear the cause of the widow [[Isaiah 1:23]].
* **Divine Judgment:** Scripture declares that a curse from the Lord will enter the house of the **thief** and ultimately **consume** `{{H3615}}` it, showing that theft invites divine retribution [[Zechariah 5:4]].
* **Moral Depravity:** Partnering with a **thief** is described as hating one's own soul [[Proverbs 29:24]], and the **thief** is associated with the **murderer** `{{H7523}}` who operates in darkness [[Job 24:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1590}}` **gannâb** functions as more than a simple label for a lawbreaker. It is a key term in biblical ethics and law, defining a serious offense with clear penalties [[Exodus 22:7]]. The word is also employed as a powerful metaphor for shame, national disgrace, and the moral corruption of a nation's leaders ([[Jeremiah 2:26]], [[Isaiah 1:23]]). Ultimately, the figure of the **thief** stands as a symbol of injustice and unrighteousness, an offender against both God and neighbor who faces certain judgment [[Zechariah 5:4]].
TRV