Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words can provide a richer, more nuanced interpretation of scripture. The word κλέμμα (klemmá), appearing in Revelation 9:21, is significant because it delves into themes of morality and ethical behavior, specifically theft. The term’s usage in the New Testament opens a window to ancient Greek culture’s moral and social values and helps scholars and readers alike to grasp the severity of theft and its implications within the early Christian community.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κλέμμα, transliterated as klemmá [KLEM-mah].

Etymology: The word κλέμμα comes from the root verb κλέπτω (kleptō), which means “to steal.” This root word is where we derive the modern term “kleptomania,” describing a compulsion to steal. The noun κλέμμα directly translates to “theft” or “that which is stolen.”

Part of Speech: Noun. As a noun, κλέμμα falls under the third declension in Greek grammar. It typically appears in the singular form, masculine gender, and has various case endings that change based on grammatical context.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Theft (Primary Meaning): The primary meaning of κλέμμα is straightforward—”theft” or “act of stealing.” This encompasses any form of taking something unlawfully, without permission, and with the intent to deprive the owner of it.
2. Something Stolen (Secondary Meaning): By extension, κλέμμα can also refer to “that which is stolen.” This meaning emphasizes the object rather than the act itself, focusing on the result of the theft rather than the action.

Exploring Similar Words

1. κλέπτης (kleptēs) [KLEP-tays]: This word means “thief” and refers to a person who commits theft. Unlike κλέμμα, which denotes the act or object stolen, κλέπτης describes the person involved in the act.
2. ληστής (lēstēs) [lays-TAYS]: Often translated as “robber,” this word differs from κλέμμα in that it implies a more violent or forceful act of theft. It is used in contexts where robbery involves direct confrontation or violence.
3. πλεονεξία (pleonexia) [pleh-oh-nex-EE-ah]: Meaning “covetousness” or “greed,” this term highlights the motivation behind theft or other acts of taking. It differs from κλέμμα, which focuses on the action or object.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:
κλέμμα is a third-declension noun in Greek. Its grammatical variations depend on its case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative), number (singular, plural), and gender (masculine).

Declension:
The declension of κλέμμα in the singular form is as follows:

For a comprehensive guide to Greek grammar and declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

κλέμμα is a rare word in the New Testament, primarily appearing in lists of vices, as in Revelation 9:21, where it denotes a specific sinful behavior that will not be repented of by the wicked. The word’s usage in the Septuagint and other Greek literature is limited but significant, often highlighting theft’s moral and legal implications. It is essential to note that κλέμμα carries a strong negative connotation, aligning it with other acts of immorality such as murder and sexual immorality. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Revelation 9:21: “Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts [κλέμματα].” In this verse, κλέμμα is used to emphasize the persistent and unrepentant nature of humanity’s sins.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

κλέμμα, meaning “theft” or “that which is stolen,” serves as a critical term in Biblical and classical Greek contexts. Its usage in the New Testament underscores the gravity of theft as a moral and social vice, aligning it with other serious sins. Understanding κλέμμα helps readers grasp the ethical teachings of the New Testament and appreciate the broader cultural context of ancient Greek thought on law and morality.

Did You Know?

1. The term κλέμμα is related to “kleptomania,” a psychological condition characterized by an impulse to steal, deriving from the same Greek root, κλέπτω (kleptō).
2. In ancient Greek law, theft could result in severe punishments, including double restitution or even death in some circumstances, highlighting the importance of property rights.
3. The word κλέμμα appears only once in the New Testament, emphasizing its specificity and rarity in Biblical literature, adding weight to its theological significance.