CategoryDoctrine / Sin and Guilt Term
Modern Equivalentoffense; wrongdoing; violation.
KJV Word TypeTheological noun / verb
DefinitionAn offense, sin, or violation of God’s command or another person’s rights. In the KJV, it can describe moral guilt, covenant violation, or wrongdoing against another.
Key Verses"Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." (Matthew 6:12); "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins." (Ephesians 2:1)
KJV Usage NoteOften overlaps with sin, offense, and debt language, especially in passages about forgiveness and spiritual guilt.
Common MisunderstandingIt does not only mean entering someone’s property unlawfully; in Scripture it often means moral or spiritual offense.
EtymologyFrom Old French trespasser, meaning to pass beyond, transgress, or offend.