What does "extortioner" mean in the Bible?

Definition and General Usage in Scripture

“Extortioner,” in a broad sense, describes someone who unlawfully or unethically obtains money, property, or advantage. In biblical usage, the term often conveys the idea of exploiting another person’s vulnerability or weakness. It appears in lists of sins and behaviors condemned in both the Old Testament and New Testament, underscoring that exploiting others for personal gain is viewed as morally abhorrent.

Hebrew and Greek Terminology

In the Old Testament, the concept behind “extortion” or “oppression” can be associated with Hebrew words that convey the sense of taking something by force or coercion (e.g., עָשַׁק, ‘āšaq, often rendered “oppress” or “extort”). These terms indicate wrongful pressure or unfair advantage.

In the New Testament, the Greek words sometimes translated as “extortioner” include ἅρπαξ (harpax) and related forms, conveying the sense of “rapacious,” “grasping,” or “swindling.” The Berean Standard Bible may render this Greek term in some passages as “swindler” or “extortioner,” highlighting the unethical extraction of resources from someone else.

Old Testament References and Context

Scriptures such as Leviticus and Deuteronomy outline laws to prevent oppression, which includes extending fair lending practices and avoiding unjustly seizing assets. While the specific English term “extortioner” may not frequently appear in these passages, the principle is evident. For instance, Leviticus 25:17 exhorts, “Do not take advantage of each other, but fear your God. For I am the LORD your God.” This underscores that personal or financial gain at another’s expense contradicts God’s design for just and righteous living.

The prophets often spoke against leaders and wealthy individuals who used their position to exploit others, associating their conduct with injustice. Micah 2:1-2 states, “Woe to those who devise iniquity and plot evil on their beds! … They covet fields and seize them; they take over houses and deprive a man of his home.” Though not always labeled “extortion,” the behavior parallels the definition.

New Testament References and Usage

In the New Testament, extortioners are consistently listed among sinners who seek personal gain through coercive or deceptive means. One notable usage is in 1 Corinthians 5:11, “But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or verbally abusive, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.” The word “swindler” in some translations corresponds to the concept of the extortioner—someone who obtains what they want through wrongdoing.

In Luke 18:11, the Pharisee’s prayer includes, “God, I thank You that I am not like the other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector.” Here, “swindlers” points to individuals who rob others by deceit or force. Jesus frequently criticized the religious leaders of the day for their hypocrisy and greed, which could manifest in practices of extortion, as in Matthew 23:25: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence.”

Comparison with Similar Terms

The Bible frequently groups extortioners with thieves, robbers, or oppressors. Though these terms are closely related, extortion typically includes the notion of intimidation or abuse of authority (civic, religious, or social) to extract money or benefits. Thieves and robbers take property without consent, but extortioners coerce by threat. While all are condemned, extortioners exemplify a calculated form of wrongdoing that exploits trust or dependence.

Moral and Theological Implications

The condemnation of extortion underscores the biblical teaching that love for one’s neighbor and justice toward the weak should guide economic and social practices. Since all humans bear the image of God, treating others as mere resources for personal advantage violates God’s law. The biblical writers present extortion as antithetical to righteousness and reflective of a corrupt heart.

Biblically, those who engage in extortion are warned that such behavior places them outside the kingdom of God, absent true repentance and transformation. This aligns with the broader spiritual principle that God’s people are called to reflect His justice, mercy, and integrity.

Practical Application and Warnings

Scripture’s warnings against extortion extend into every sphere of life, encouraging believers to avoid exploiting circumstances or people for ill-gotten gain. Employers, leaders, or anyone with influence should heed these texts when making decisions that might harm or exploit others.

The biblical stance on extortion also speaks to fairness in transactions, honesty in business, and compassion in lending and borrowing. First-century believers were encouraged to care for one another (Acts 4:32-35), demonstrating that Christian ethics involve looking out for others rather than seeking to profit from their vulnerability.

Concluding Thoughts

“Extortioner,” as used in Scripture, represents one who engages in oppressive or coercive behavior for personal gain. From Old Testament laws safeguarding just dealings to New Testament exhortations about holy conduct, the Bible consistently warns against extorting anyone under any pretense. It is portrayed not merely as a legal breach but a moral and spiritual failing that reflects a heart turned away from loving one’s neighbor.

This theme resonates in the biblical narrative, where God’s people are commanded to act with justice, kindness, and humility (Micah 6:8). Extortionary behavior breaks that command, undermines the community, and grieves the God who calls His people to represent His righteousness in all aspects of life.