ἀποστερέω

I deprive one of something, rob

Definition

The verb ἀποστερέω primarily means to deprive someone of something that rightfully belongs to them, often with a sense of injustice. In its active voice, it describes the act of defrauding or robbing, as seen in the command not to defraud (Mark 10:19) and in Paul's rebuke of believers defrauding one another (1 Corinthians 6:7-8). In the middle voice, it can mean to deprive oneself, as in the mutual agreement by spouses not to deprive each other of conjugal rights (1 Corinthians 7:5). The passive voice indicates being deprived or bereft, such as the wages of laborers being kept back by fraud (James 5:4).

Biblical Usage

ἀποστερέω is used six times in the New Testament, appearing in ethical and relational contexts. It is used in lists of sins (Mark 10:19), in specific church disputes about lawsuits and fraud (1 Corinthians 6:7-8), in marital instruction (1 Corinthians 7:5), in descriptions of false teachers motivated by gain (1 Timothy 6:5), and in a prophetic denunciation of economic exploitation (James 5:4). Its usage consistently highlights violations of justice, fairness, and rightful possession within community relationships.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and a root related to sterēsis, meaning 'privation' or 'loss'. The compound thus carries the core idea of taking something away, leading to someone's loss. It is related to the adjective στερός (steros, 'hard, firm'), possibly implying a hardening in the act of withholding what is due.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on God's character of justice and His commands for righteous human relationships. It condemns economic exploitation (James 5:4) and interpersonal fraud (1 Corinthians 6:7-8) as sins against both neighbor and God. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical commands against 'defrauding' are not merely about theft but encompass any unjust deprivation of what is rightfully owed—be it wages, marital dues, or fair treatment—thereby grounding ethics in the principle of rendering to each what is due.

In the Greco-Roman world, the term was used in legal and commercial contexts for deprivation or fraud. James 5:4 directly addresses a common cultural injustice where day-laborers, who were wholly dependent on daily wages for survival, were frequently exploited by wealthy landowners who delayed or withheld payment. This practice was not only economically devastating but also a severe violation of social obligation and covenant, as the cry of the defrauded laborers is said to reach the ears of God.

ἁρπάζω (harpazō, G726) — to seize, snatch away violently or suddenly. κλέπτω (kleptō, G2813) — to steal secretly. ἀδικέω (adikeō, G91) — to do wrong or act unjustly (a broader term). πλεονεκτέω (pleonekteō, G4122) — to take advantage of, overreach, or covet.

Word Details

Scripture References