Neither shalt thou steal.

DEUTERONOMY 5:19KJV
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Deuteronomy 5:19 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 5:19 mean?

Deuteronomy 5:19 is a direct command that forbids stealing. The verse simply states that no one should take what belongs to someone else without permission, making it clear that theft is not allowed among the people.

In context, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the land promised to them. He is repeating the Ten Commandments, which God gave to their ancestors at Mount Sinai. This specific command protects personal property and helps maintain trust and fairness within the community.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 5:19

  • The Hebrew word for "steal" here is גָּנַב (ganav). This word covers a range of thefts, from secretly taking something to outright robbery. Its use in this commandment highlights that all forms of stealing—no matter how small or secret—are included in the prohibition.

Why Deuteronomy 5:19 matters

  • This commandment is part of a larger set of laws that form the foundation of Israelite society, showing that respect for others’ property is a basic expectation for living together.
  • By stating the command so simply and directly, the verse leaves no room for excuses or loopholes, making the standard clear for everyone.
  • Understanding the original Hebrew word גָּנַב (ganav) helps clarify that the command covers all types of theft, not just obvious or violent stealing.

Where else these words appear

“steal” Hebrew H1589 · used in 36 verses

  • Genesis 30:33 So shall my righteousness answer for me in time to come, when it shall come for my hire before thy face: every one that is not speckled and spotted among the goats, and brown among the sheep, that shall be counted stolen with me.
  • Exodus 21:16 And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.
  • 2 Chronicles 22:11 But Jehoshabeath, the daughter of the king, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's sons that were slain, and put him and his nurse in a bedchamber. So Jehoshabeath, the daughter of king Jehoram, the wife of Jehoiada the priest,(for she was the sister of Ahaziah,) hid him from Athaliah, so that she slew him not.