STRONGS NT 650: ἀφυστερέωἀφυστερέω, ἀφυστέρω: (a later Greek word);

1. to be behindhand, come too late (ἀπό so as to be far from, or to fail, a person or thing); used of persons not present at the right time: Polybius 22, 5, 2; Posidon. quoted in Athen. 4, 37 (i. e. 4, p. 151 e.); (others); ἀπό ἀγαθῆς ἡμέρας to fail (to make use of) a good day, to let the opportunity pass by, Sir. 14:14.

2. transitively, to cause to fail, to withdraw, take away from, defraud: τό μάννα σου οὐκ ἀφυστέρησας ἀπό στόματος αὐτῶν, Nehemiah 9:20 (for מָנַע to withhold); perfect passive participle ἀφυστερημενος (μισθός), James 5:4 T Tr WH after א B* (Rec. ἀπεστερημένος, see ἀποστερέω, also under the word ἀπό, II. 2 d. bb., p. 59{b}).

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • H1497 גָּזַל (gazal): To tear away, seize, rob.
• H4603 מָעַל (maal): To act unfaithfully or treacherously.
• H6231 עָשַׁק (ashaq): To oppress, extort, or defraud.

These Hebrew terms share similar themes of deprivation and injustice, reflecting the consistent biblical concern for ethical conduct and the protection of the vulnerable.

Usage: The term ἀποστερέω is used in the New Testament to describe the act of withholding or depriving someone of what is due to them, often in the context of financial or material matters.

Context: The Greek verb ἀποστερέω appears in several New Testament passages, emphasizing the moral and ethical implications of depriving others of their rightful possessions or dues. It is often used in contexts that highlight the importance of justice and fairness in human relationships.

• Mark 10:19 (BSB): "You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not bear false witness, do not defraud, and honor your father and mother.’” Here, ἀποστερέω is translated as "do not defraud," underscoring the ethical demand to respect others' rights and properties.

• 1 Corinthians 6:7-8 (BSB): "The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, even against your own brothers!" In this passage, the concept of defrauding is linked to the broader theme of Christian conduct and the call to live in harmony and integrity within the community.

• James 5:4 (BSB): "Look, the wages you withheld from the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of Hosts." Here, ἀποστερέω is implied in the withholding of wages, highlighting the social justice aspect of the term and God's concern for the oppressed.

The use of ἀποστερέω in these contexts reflects a broader biblical principle that emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and justice in dealings with others. It serves as a reminder of the ethical standards expected of believers and the consequences of failing to uphold these standards.