קָבַע

קָבַע

to cover, i.e. (figuratively) defraud

Definition

The Hebrew verb קָבַע (qâbaʻ) primarily means to rob, defraud, or deal deceitfully. It carries the sense of taking something by stealth or oppression, often through dishonest means. In its three biblical occurrences, it describes the act of defrauding the poor and vulnerable (Proverbs 22:23) and, most prominently, robbing God by withholding tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:8-9). The word implies a breach of trust or covenant, not merely a violent theft.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only three times in the Old Testament, all in wisdom and prophetic literature. It appears once in Proverbs (22:23) as a warning against oppressing the poor, with the assurance that God will plead their cause. Its other two uses are in Malachi (3:8-9), where God directly accuses Israel of robbing Him by failing to bring the full tithe. The usage pattern shows it applies to both horizontal injustice against people and vertical covenant unfaithfulness against God.

Etymology

A primitive root, its basic meaning relates to hollowing out, digging, or making a cavity. This physical sense likely evolved metaphorically to mean 'to rob' or 'defraud'—i.e., to hollow someone out by taking what is theirs. Cognates in other Semitic languages support meanings of digging, piercing, or deceiving.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it frames unfaithfulness, especially in Malachi 3:8, as a form of robbery against God Himself. It connects material stewardship (tithes) directly to covenant relationship, showing that withholding what is due is not merely negligence but active theft. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting the seriousness with which God views economic justice and religious devotion as inseparable. In ancient Israelite culture, tithes and offerings were not just charitable gifts but were understood as God's rightful portion from the land He provided. To withhold them was to deny God's ownership and provision, a serious covenantal violation. Defrauding the poor (Proverbs 22:23) was equally grave, as society was structured to protect the vulnerable, and such acts undermined the community's moral fabric. גָּזַל (gāzal, H1497) — to seize by force or plunder, often more violent. עָשַׁק (ʿāshaq, H6231) — to oppress or extort, emphasizing injustice and pressure. בָּגַד (bāgad, H898) — to deal treacherously or faithlessly, focusing on betrayal.

Word Details