Thief
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Thief in the Bible?
The term 'thief' translates Hebrew and Greek words for criminals or robbers, with some linguistic evidence suggesting the category included kidnappers. In the New Testament narrative, one of the two criminals crucified with Jesus acknowledged his guilt and recognized Jesus's innocence, asking to be remembered in Jesus's kingdom.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the context of this figure clarifies the Gospel accounts of Jesus's final hours, illustrating the theological concept of redemption available even at the moment of death and contrasting the responses of the two criminals to demonstrate the nature of genuine faith.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Thief in this passage?
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.