### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term πλεονεξία (pleonexía, `{{G4124}}`) is derived from πλεονέκτης (pleonektēs, "one who desires more"), which itself stems from πλέον (pleon, "more") and ἔχω (echō, "to have"). At its core, πλεονεξία signifies an insatiable desire for *more*, particularly for possessions or advantages that rightfully belong to others. It encapsulates a grasping, covetous spirit that is never content with what it has. The semantic range extends beyond mere desire to include the active pursuit of such gain, often leading to unrighteous practices like fraudulency, extortion, and exploitation. It is not simply a longing but an aggressive, self-serving disposition that seeks to accumulate without regard for justice or the well-being of others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πλεονεξία appears frequently in the New Testament, consistently condemned as a grave sin.
In [[Mark 7:22]], Jesus lists πλεονεξία among the evils that proceed from within the human heart, demonstrating its internal origin and defiling nature.
[[Luke 12:15]] records Jesus' direct warning: "Take heed and beware of all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." This highlights the futility of material accumulation as a source of true life.
Paul frequently includes πλεονεξία in his vice lists, often alongside other severe moral failings. In [[Romans 1:29]], it is part of a comprehensive catalogue of depraved behaviors characteristic of humanity alienated from God.
In [[2 Corinthians 9:5]], Paul speaks of preparing a generous gift so that it might not be regarded as an "exaction" or "covetous gift" (πλεονεξία), emphasizing the importance of cheerful and willing giving over grudging or compelled contributions.
Perhaps most significantly, πλεονεξία is explicitly equated with idolatry in two key passages. In [[Ephesians 5:3]], Paul commands that "sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints." He then clarifies in [[Ephesians 5:5]] that "no sexually immoral or impure person, nor anyone who is greedy (πλεονέκτης), who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God." Similarly, [[Colossians 3:5]] exhorts believers to "put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry." These passages underscore that the desire for possessions, when elevated above God, constitutes a form of worship directed towards created things rather than the Creator.
Paul also denies any accusation of using his ministry as a "cloak for greed" (πλεονεξία) in [[1 Thessalonians 2:5]], asserting his pure motives and self-sacrificing service.
In the Petrine epistles, πλεονεξία is linked to false teachers. [[2 Peter 2:3]] states that "in their greed (πλεονεξία) these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories." [[2 Peter 2:14]] further describes those with "hearts trained in greed" (πλεονεξία), indicating a habitual and cultivated disposition towards illicit gain.
### Related Words & Concepts
πλεονεξία is closely related to other terms signifying unrighteous desire and gain. It shares conceptual space with φιλαργυρία (philargyria, `{{G5365}}`), the "love of money," which [[1 Timothy 6:10]] identifies as a root of all kinds of evil. While φιλαργυρία focuses specifically on money, πλεονεξία has a broader scope, encompassing any grasping desire for more. It can lead to ἁρπαγμός (harpagmos, `{{G725}}`), "robbery" or "extortion," and is often a manifestation of ἀδικία (adikia, `{{G93}}`), "unrighteousness" or "injustice."
Its antonyms include contentment (αὐτάρκεια, autarkeia, `{{G841}}`), generosity (ἁπλότης, haplotēs, `{{G572}}`), and the self-giving love (ἀγάπη, agapē, `{{G25}}`) that characterizes God and is commanded of believers.
In the Old Testament, the concept aligns with warnings against dishonest gain (e.g., בֶּצַע, betsa', `{{H1215}}`) and the insatiable desires of the soul (e.g., נֶפֶשׁ, nephesh, often implying a greedy appetite).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πλεονεξία is profound and multifaceted.
Firstly, it is identified as a fundamental sin originating from the corrupted human heart, capable of defiling an individual and leading to a host of other transgressions.
Secondly, and most critically, its explicit equation with idolatry in [[Ephesians 5:5]] and [[Colossians 3:5]] elevates it beyond a mere ethical failing to a direct affront against God. When a person's ultimate desire and trust are placed in material possessions or worldly gain, they effectively relegate God from His rightful place, worshipping the created rather than the Creator. This makes πλεονεξία a direct violation of the first commandment.
Thirdly, πλεονεξία stands in stark opposition to the nature and character of God, who is inherently generous, self-giving, and just. It is antithetical to the spirit of Christ, who, "though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich" ([[2 Corinthians 8:9]]).
Fourthly, the New Testament unequivocally states that those who practice πλεονεξία will not inherit the kingdom of God ([[Ephesians 5:5]]), underscoring its severe spiritual consequences and its incompatibility with genuine salvation and discipleship.
Finally, its association with false teachers ([[2 Peter 2:3]]) highlights how this sin can corrupt spiritual leadership and lead to the exploitation of the vulnerable, undermining the integrity of the Christian community.
### Summary
πλεονεξία (pleonexía, `{{G4124}}`) denotes an insatiable, grasping desire for more, particularly for what belongs to others, leading to practices of covetousness, fraud, and exploitation. The New Testament consistently condemns this vice, listing it among the most serious sins that originate from the defiled human heart. Its profound theological significance lies in its explicit identification with idolatry, revealing that an ultimate desire for material gain constitutes a misplaced worship, setting created things above God. As such, πλεονεξία is antithetical to the character of God, the teachings of Christ, and the ethical demands of the Kingdom, serving as a barrier to inheriting eternal life.
TRV