גָּזַל

גָּזַל

to pluck off; specifically to flay, strip or rob

Definition

The Hebrew verb גָּזַל (gâzal) fundamentally means to seize or take something by force, often with a sense of violence or injustice. It primarily denotes the act of robbery or plunder, as seen in laws prohibiting theft from a neighbor (Leviticus 19:13). In some contexts, it extends to the forceful taking of people, such as kidnapping or carrying off captives (Judges 21:23). The word can also describe stripping or plucking something off, like fruit from a tree, emphasizing the violent removal of what rightfully belongs to another.

Biblical Usage

גָּזַל is used 30 times across the Old Testament, appearing in legal, narrative, and prophetic texts. It is prominent in the Torah's legal codes, explicitly forbidding robbery and mandating restitution (Leviticus 6:4). In historical narratives, it describes acts of plunder by bands of raiders (Judges 9:25) or the seizing of property in disputes (Genesis 21:25). The prophets and Deuteronomy also use it in curses for covenant disobedience, warning that Israelites themselves will be 'robbed' (Deuteronomy 28:29, 31).

Etymology

גָּזַל is a primitive root. Its core meaning relates to forcefully pulling away or stripping. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Arabic 'jazala' (to cut off), supporting the sense of violent removal. The Hebrew meaning developed to focus specifically on the unjust seizure of property or persons.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines a violation of God's covenant law, which protects personal property and dignity. It is grouped with other social sins like oppression and deceit, highlighting God's concern for justice and right relationships within the community (Leviticus 19:13). Understanding גָּזַל enriches reading by clarifying that biblical 'robbery' is not a minor theft but a violent, predatory act that disrupts shalom and requires both restitution and atonement. In ancient Israelite culture, robbery was not merely a crime against property but a direct assault on a household's economic viability and social standing. The laws requiring restitution plus a penalty (Leviticus 6:5) aimed to restore the victim fully and deter community-destroying behavior. The act was seen as a form of oppression, akin to the injustice the Israelites suffered in Egypt. גָּנַב (gānab, H1589) — to steal secretly or by deceit, without the overt force implied by גָּזַל. עָשַׁק (ʿāshaq, H6231) — to oppress or defraud, often through economic exploitation or legal injustice, a broader term than the direct seizure of גָּזַל. בָּצַע (bātsaʿ, H1214) — to cut off, to gain by violence or unjust profit, often with a focus on greedy gain.

Word Details