Overview
Theft is explicitly forbidden in God's law as a violation of the eighth commandment. The Old Testament provides detailed regulations regarding stolen property, establishing the principle that restitution—often double or multiple times the stolen value—must be made to the victim. This reflects God's concern for justice, personal property rights, and restoration of relationships.
Key Scriptures
"If a man steals an ox or a sheep, and slaughters it or sells it, he shall repay five oxen for an ox and four sheep for a sheep" (Exodus 22:1, NASB).
"If a thief is caught, he must pay restitution; if he owns nothing, he is to be sold for his theft" (Exodus 22:3, NIV).
"If a man or woman wrongs another in any way and so is unfaithful to the LORD, that person is guilty and must make full restitution, add a fifth of the value to it and give it all to the person they have wronged" (Leviticus 6:2-5, NIV).
Application
Believers must practice honesty in all dealings and actively seek restitution when they have wronged others, reflecting Christ's redemptive character.