What is the meaning of "You shall not steal"?

Definition and Scriptural Placement

“You shall not steal” (Exodus 20:15) is one of the Ten Commandments originally given to Moses on Mount Sinai. It occupies a central place within the moral code presented in the Hebrew Scriptures. This commandment directly addresses taking what does not rightfully belong to you. Although the immediate sense pertains to tangible possessions, the broader implications reach into matters of integrity, respect for others, and stewardship before the Creator.

Historical Context and Relevance

In the ancient Near Eastern world, laws safeguarding personal property were deemed essential to maintain trust and social stability. Neighboring cultures often had regulations against stealing, but the biblical command carries a unique theological weight by directly linking honest living to reverence for God. Archaeological discoveries, such as ancient legal documents from Mesopotamia, highlight how societies have always recognized the destructive effects of theft on communal life. However, the biblical prohibition particularly reveals the relationship between humanity’s conduct and accountability to an eternal, righteous moral Lawgiver.

Literal Meaning and Linguistic Nuance

The Hebrew verb used in Exodus 20:15 is “ganab,” which encompasses the act of secretly or dishonestly taking that which does not belong to one. This extends to diverse angles of possession, whether property, livestock, or even the intangible—like ideas or a person’s livelihood. In the biblical worldview, every act of theft undermines social bonds, dishonors God as the ultimate provider, and disregards one’s call to care for others.

Expansion and Elaboration in Biblical Teaching

1. Old Testament Examples: Further elaborations appear in passages like Exodus 22:1–3, where specific guidelines outline restitution for stolen livestock and property. If theft occurred, returning more than what was taken helped restore justice and served as a tangible acknowledgment of wrongdoing.

2. New Testament Reflection: The teaching continues in the New Testament. Jesus affirms the commandment in Matthew 19:18 by restating, “You shall not steal.” The Apostle Paul addresses both the act of stealing and the transformation required in a believer's life: “He who has been stealing must steal no longer. Indeed, he must labor, doing good with his own hands” (Ephesians 4:28). This highlights conversion from dishonest gain to honest work and generosity toward others.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

Stealing is not merely a social offense; it violates the moral standard rooted in the character of God. The Creator is depicted in Scripture as both the ultimate owner of everything (Psalm 24:1) and the loving provider (Matthew 6:26–33). When individuals steal, they disregard God’s provision and sovereignty. This breach severs trust—the trust between humans and the trust that God’s design for provision will be honored. The moral outworking thus underscores gratitude, reliance on the Lord’s care, and respect for what He has entrusted to others.

Broader Applications

1. Economic Integrity: Beyond taking physical objects, the prohibition implicates issues like fraud, embezzlement, and dishonest business practices. Scriptural wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, consistently condemns cheating scales and dishonest profit (Proverbs 11:1; 20:23).

2. Intellectual Property and Credit: The principle against stealing applies to the misappropriation of creative or intellectual work. As knowledge and inventions advance, the biblical command holds steady to remind society that any form of taking credit or resources unfairly is a transgression against both neighbor and God.

3. Community and Charity: The command invites believers to foster a spirit of generosity. Rather than taking from others, individuals are encouraged to share and provide for those who are struggling. Acts 4:32–35 offers an example in the early faith community, emphasizing sharing possessions so that none would be in need.

Restoring What Is Taken

A distinctive feature in biblical law is the consideration of restitution. Merely returning stolen goods is not always deemed sufficient; rebuilding trust and offering practical amends acknowledges the wounded relationship. Repairing the harm done—whether monetarily, by open apology, or through additional acts of service—remains a vital biblical principle. By practicing restitution, individuals exemplify humility and genuine repentance.

Practical Lessons and Encouragement

1. Guarding Our Hearts: Stealing frequently begins with coveting (Exodus 20:17). Recognizing greed and envy as precursors to theft can help individuals protect their hearts from harboring ill intent.

2. Cultivating Contentment: A regular practice of gratitude—thanking God for what one has—can impede the temptation to steal. This aligns well with Paul’s teaching in Philippians 4:11–13, emphasizing contentment in all circumstances.

3. Contributing to Society: Those who have the ability to work are encouraged to labor honestly, supporting themselves and contributing to the needs of others. Paul’s counsel in 2 Thessalonians 3:10–12 underscores the value of diligent work and the avoidance of idleness.

Conclusion

“You shall not steal” stands as a concise yet wide-ranging moral directive that preserves human dignity, fosters societal harmony, and reflects the nature of the One who desires integrity among all people. When people refrain from taking what does not belong to them—and seek to restore and reconcile whenever theft has occurred—they honor the foundational principle established in Scripture. In this way, the command not only prevents harm but also nurtures a culture of honesty, gratitude, and mutual care, all rooted in the abiding conviction that true provision comes from the Creator of all things.