### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term ἐριθεία (eritheía, `{{G2052}}`) fundamentally denotes "selfish ambition," "rivalry," or "factious spirit." Its etymological root is debated, but a common suggestion links it to ἐρεθίζω (erethízō, "to provoke, excite, irritate"), implying a stirring up of trouble rooted in self-interest. Unlike general "strife" (ἔρις, `{{G2054}}`), eritheía carries the nuance of ambition that seeks prominence or advantage for oneself, often at the expense of others or the unity of a group. In classical Greek, it was sometimes used to describe the self-serving canvassing for public office, highlighting the underlying motivation of personal gain or recognition rather than genuine public service. Thus, its semantic range points to a contentious spirit driven by self-centered desires, leading to division and discord.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐριθεία appears seven times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Pauline epistles and the Epistle of James, consistently carrying a negative connotation and often listed among other vices that disrupt communal harmony.
In [[Romans 2:8]], Paul contrasts those who "obey the truth" with those who are "selfishly ambitious" (ἐριθείας) and "disobey the truth but obey unrighteousness," stating that they will receive "wrath and fury." Here, eritheía is linked directly to unrighteousness and disobedience, highlighting its opposition to divine truth and its consequence of judgment.
[[2 Corinthians 12:20]] includes eritheía in a list of behaviors Paul fears he will find among the Corinthians: "quarrels, jealousy, fits of rage, rivalries (ἐριθείαι), slander, gossip, arrogance, disorder." This context reveals eritheía as a disruptive force within the church, contributing to internal conflict and disunity.
In [[Philippians 1:17]], Paul notes that some preach Christ "from selfish ambition (ἐριθείας), not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains." This verse underscores the self-serving motivation behind their actions, even when seemingly engaged in Christian ministry. Their goal is not pure proclamation but personal advantage or opposition.
A crucial exhortation appears in [[Philippians 2:3]]: "Do nothing from selfish ambition (ἐριθείας) or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." This verse directly contrasts eritheía with humility (ταπεινοφροσύνη, `{{G5012}}`), presenting it as a fundamental antithesis to Christ-like selflessness and the unity of the body.
[[Galatians 5:20]] lists eritheía among the "works of the flesh," alongside "enmities, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries (ἐριθεῖαι), dissensions, divisions, envy." Its inclusion here places it in direct opposition to the "fruit of the Spirit" (πνεύματος καρπός), such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This categorization emphasizes its origin in the sinful human nature.
Finally, James condemns eritheía in [[James 3:14]] and [[James 3:16]]. In [[James 3:14]], he states, "But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition (ἐριθείαν) in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth." Then, in [[James 3:16]], he concludes, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition (ἐριθεία) exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice." James explicitly links eritheía with "earthly, unspiritual, demonic" wisdom, demonstrating its profound spiritual danger and its destructive consequences for community life.
Across these occurrences, eritheía consistently describes a contentious, self-seeking spirit that undermines truth, unity, and godly conduct within the community of faith.
### Related Words & Concepts
Εριθεία is frequently found in conjunction with, or as a consequence of, other negative behaviors and motivations.
* **Ἔρις (eris, `{{G2054}}`):** "Strife, contention." While related, eritheía often describes the *motivation* (selfish ambition) that *leads to* eris.
* **Ζῆλος (zēlos, `{{G2205}}`):** "Jealousy, envy, rivalry." Often paired with eritheía (e.g., James 3:14, 16; 2 Corinthians 12:20; Galatians 5:20), indicating that selfish ambition often stems from or is accompanied by competitive envy.
* **Διχοστασία (dichostasía, `{{G1370}}`):** "Dissension, division." Eritheía is a primary cause of such divisions within a community (Galatians 5:20).
* **Κενόδοξος (kenódoxos, `{{G2755}}`):** "Conceited, vainglorious." Philippians 2:3 links eritheía with "conceit," highlighting the prideful root of selfish ambition.
* **Antonyms/Opposite Concepts:** The New Testament implicitly contrasts eritheía with virtues such as:
* **Ταπεινοφροσύνη (tapeinophrosýnē, `{{G5012}}`):** "Humility, lowliness of mind" (Philippians 2:3).
* **Ἀγάπη (agápē, `{{G26}}`):** "Love," which "does not envy" and "is not boastful" (1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Galatians 5:22).
* **Εἰρήνη (eirēnē, `{{G1515}}`):** "Peace," which eritheía actively disrupts.
* **Ἑνότης (henótēs, `{{G1773}}`):** "Unity," which is destroyed by factionalism.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐριθεία is profound, touching upon the nature of sin, Christian ethics, and the health of the church.
1. **A Work of the Flesh:** Its consistent inclusion among the "works of the flesh" in Galatians 5 underscores that eritheía is a manifestation of fallen human nature, driven by self-centered desires rather than the Spirit of God. It represents a fundamental opposition to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit.
2. **Destruction of Unity:** Eritheía is a primary internal threat to the unity and peace of the Christian community. It fosters division, quarrels, and disorder, directly undermining the church's calling to be one body in Christ. Such internal strife hinders the church's witness to the world.
3. **Opposed to Christ-like Humility:** The exhortation in Philippians 2:3, "Do nothing from selfish ambition... but in humility count others more significant than yourselves," reveals eritheía as antithetical to the very character of Christ, who emptied Himself and took the form of a servant. A life free from eritheía is one marked by selfless love and service, mirroring Christ's example.
4. **Source of Disorder and Evil:** James 3:16 vividly portrays eritheía as a root cause of "disorder and every vile practice," indicating that it is not merely a minor character flaw but a source of profound spiritual and communal corruption. It is linked to earthly, unspiritual, and even demonic wisdom.
5. **Subject to Divine Judgment:** Romans 2:8 warns that those characterized by eritheía will face God's wrath and fury, highlighting the seriousness with which God views such self-serving conduct that defies truth and righteousness.
### Summary
Εριθεία (eritheía, `{{G2052}}`) denotes a "selfish ambition" or "rivalrous spirit" that prioritizes personal gain, recognition, or advantage over the common good and the unity of the community. It is consistently condemned in the New Testament as a destructive force, listed among the "works of the flesh" and linked with jealousy, dissension, and disorder. Theologically, eritheía represents a manifestation of the fallen human nature, directly opposing Christ-like humility, love, and unity. Its presence within a community leads to spiritual corruption and is subject to divine judgment. Christians are exhorted to actively reject eritheía and instead cultivate humility and selfless love, fostering peace and unity in accordance with the Spirit.
TRV