Embezzlement
“Theft, stealing”
Summary
While the specific term 'embezzlement' does not appear in Scripture, the concept falls under the broader biblical category of theft, which the Mosaic law treated with detailed provisions for restitution and punishment depending on the nature and circumstances of the offense.
☩Theft in Mosaic Law
The Mosaic code addressed theft in its various forms (Exod 22:1-15). When stolen property had been sold or destroyed, the thief was required to make fivefold restitution for cattle or fourfold for sheep (cf. 2 Sam 12:6). If the living animal was recovered, only twofold restoration was required. For other property, where discovery was easier, the penalty was simple restitution plus one-fifth added for loss of use (Lev 6:1-5). The graduated penalties reflect both the seriousness of the offense and practical considerations about property types.
☩Related Offenses
Kidnapping (plagium)—stealing a person—was treated as a capital offense: 'He that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death' (Exod 21:16; Deut 24:7). A night-burglar who was killed in the act was considered justifiable homicide, but not one killed after sunrise (Exod 22:2-3). If a thief could not pay the required fine, he could be sold to a Hebrew master to work off his debt. All theft is explicitly forbidden in the Decalogue (Exod 20:15; Deut 5:19).
