The Greek word pleonéktēs, represented by G4123, identifies a person who is covetous. Derived from terms meaning "desiring more," it describes someone who is eager for gain, often to the point of being avaricious or a defrauder. This specific term appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible.
In its biblical usage, G4123 is consistently found in lists of vices that characterize those who are in opposition to God's will. It is never used in isolation, but always alongside other serious sins. For instance, believers are instructed not to keep company with a brother who is covetous 1 Corinthians 5:11. This same verse places the sin on par with being a fornicator, an idolater, or an extortioner. The term is used to describe both those outside the church and those within who must be disciplined 1 Corinthians 5:10-11.
Several related words appear alongside G4123, clarifying the context and gravity of covetousness:
- G1496 eidōlolátrēs (idolater): This word, meaning an image-worshipper, is explicitly equated with a covetous man in scripture Ephesians 5:5.
- G727 hárpax (extortion, ravening): This term for someone rapacious is frequently listed with the covetous, highlighting the theme of wrongful and aggressive gain (1 Corinthians 5:11, 1 Corinthians 6:10).
- G4205 pórnos (fornicator): Defined as a male prostitute or debauchee, this word's inclusion with covetous shows that the desire for illicit gain is treated with the same seriousness as major sexual sins 1 Corinthians 5:11.
- G2812 kléptēs (thief): As a stealer, this term is linked with the covetous, broadening the concept of taking what is not one's own 1 Corinthians 6:10.
The theological weight of G4123 is severe and has significant consequences for a believer.
- Exclusion from the Kingdom: Scripture is clear that the covetous will not inherit the kingdom of God. This is stated directly in two separate passages, alongside thieves, drunkards, and revilers (1 Corinthians 6:10, Ephesians 5:5).
- A Form of Idolatry: A covetous man is explicitly identified as an idolater Ephesians 5:5. This connection reveals that the insatiable desire for more is not merely a character flaw but a form of worship directed at something other than God.
- Basis for Separation: The sin of being covetous is considered grounds for discipline within the church. Believers are commanded not to associate with or even eat with a fellow believer who is defined by this sin 1 Corinthians 5:11.
In summary, G4123 denotes a profound spiritual condition, not just a simple desire for possessions. It is a sin that the Bible consistently groups with idolatry, sexual immorality, and theft. The use of pleonéktēs serves as a stark warning that a life characterized by the insatiable desire for more is incompatible with a relationship with God and has no place in His kingdom.
TRV