Definition and Context:
Arson, the criminal act of deliberately setting fire to property, is a concept that, while not explicitly named in the Bible, is addressed through various laws and narratives that highlight the destructive nature of fire when used with malicious intent. In biblical times, fire was a tool for both purification and destruction, symbolizing God's presence and judgment, as well as human sinfulness and rebellion.

Biblical References:

1. Judgment and Destruction:
Fire is often associated with divine judgment and destruction in the Bible. In Genesis 19:24, the Lord rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah, illustrating the use of fire as a means of divine retribution: "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens." This event underscores the severity of God's judgment against sin and wickedness.

2. Prohibition of Malicious Acts:
The Mosaic Law contains principles that can be applied to the act of arson. Exodus 22:6 addresses the responsibility for fire damage: "If a fire breaks out and spreads to thornbushes so that it consumes stacked or standing grain or the whole field, the one who started the fire must make restitution." This law emphasizes accountability and restitution for damages caused by fire, reflecting the broader biblical principle of justice and responsibility for one's actions.

3. Symbol of Rebellion:
In Judges 15:4-5, Samson uses fire as a weapon against the Philistines: "Then Samson went out and caught three hundred foxes, and he took torches, turned the foxes tail to tail, and put a torch between each pair of tails. Then he lit the torches and released the foxes into the standing grain of the Philistines, burning up the shocks and standing grain, along with the vineyards and olive groves." This act of arson was a personal vendetta, illustrating how fire can be used as a tool of rebellion and vengeance.

4. Divine Protection and Presence:
While fire can be destructive, it also represents God's protection and presence. In Exodus 3:2, God appears to Moses in a burning bush that is not consumed by the flames: "There the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from within a bush. Moses saw that the bush was on fire but was not consumed." This event signifies God's holy presence and His ability to protect and preserve amidst the flames.

5. Metaphorical Use:
Fire is used metaphorically in the New Testament to describe the refining process of faith and the testing of believers. In 1 Peter 1:7, it is written: "so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ." This metaphorical use of fire highlights its role in purification and the strengthening of character through trials.

Theological Implications:
The biblical treatment of fire, including its use in acts akin to arson, reflects broader themes of justice, judgment, and purification. Fire serves as a powerful symbol of both God's righteous judgment against sin and His refining work in the lives of believers. The biblical narrative consistently upholds the principles of accountability, restitution, and the transformative power of divine intervention.