### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kérdos**, represented by `{{G2771}}`, is defined as **gain** or **lucre**, whether pecuniary or in a more general sense. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, carrying a significantly different meaning depending on its context, ranging from a profound spiritual advantage to a corrupt, worldly profit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G2771}}` is centered on a contrast between worldly value and spiritual value. In Philippians, it is used first to express the ultimate spiritual benefit, where to **die** `{{G599}}` is considered **gain** `{{G2771}}` because life is defined by **Christ** `{{G5547}}` [[Philippians 1:21]]. Shortly after, the same word is used to describe worldly achievements and statuses that were once considered **gain** `{{G2771}}` but are now counted as **loss** `{{G2209}}` for Christ's sake [[Philippians 3:7]]. In a starkly different context, the word appears in Titus as **lucre**, describing the motive of false teachers who subvert households for the sake of "filthy" `{{G150}}` **gain** [[Titus 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contextual meaning of `{{G2771}}`:
* `{{G150}}` **aischrós** (filthy): This adjective, meaning "shameful, i.e. base (specially, venal)," is used to qualify the type of **gain** `{{G2771}}` sought by false teachers in [[Titus 1:11]], branding it as corrupt.
* `{{G2209}}` **zēmía** (loss): Defined as "detriment:--damage, loss," this word is used as the direct antonym to **gain** `{{G2771}}` in [[Philippians 3:7]]. What was once considered a gain is now counted as a loss.
* `{{G5484}}` **chárin** (for sake of): As a preposition meaning "on account of," this word clarifies the motivation in [[Titus 1:11]], where false teachers act "for the **sake** of" shameful lucre.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2771}}` is found in its ability to frame a core New Testament value system.
* **Revaluation of Worth:** The word is central to the concept of re-evaluating all things in relation to Christ. Previous advantages and accomplishments, once seen as **gain** `{{G2771}}`, are rendered worthless, or even as **loss** `{{G2209}}`, when compared to knowing Him [[Philippians 3:7]].
* **The Ultimate Gain:** The highest possible **gain** `{{G2771}}` for a believer is not found in earthly life or possessions, but in death, which brings unity with **Christ** `{{G5547}}` [[Philippians 1:21]].
* **Warning Against Corrupt Motives:** In its negative sense, the word serves as a strong warning against ministry or teaching performed for material profit, condemning the pursuit of "filthy **lucre**" `{{G2771}}` as a motivation that subverts truth [[Titus 1:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2771}}` is a term whose significance is defined by its context. It illustrates the critical distinction between spiritual and worldly pursuits. It can represent either the ultimate prize for the faithful—a deeper relationship with Christ—or the shameful, corrupting influence of material profit. The word challenges believers to examine their own motives and what they truly consider to be **gain**.
TRV