### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ploúsios**, represented by `{{G4145}}`, is the primary term for **rich** or **wealthy**. It appears **28 times** across **28 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used to describe those with significant material possessions and, figuratively, to denote an abundance of spiritual qualities like mercy or faith.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4145}}` is frequently used in teachings that contrast worldly wealth with spiritual well-being. Jesus employs the term in several parables, such as the story of the **rich** man whose land brought forth plentifully [[Luke 12:16]] and the parable of the **rich** man and Lazarus [[Luke 16:19]]. It is central to the warning that a **rich man** will find it difficult to enter the kingdom of God ([[Matthew 19:23]], [[Mark 10:25]]). Figuratively, the term is applied to God, who is **rich** in **mercy** `{{G1656}}` [[Ephesians 2:4]]. It is also used to describe the spiritual state of believers, as when the church in Smyrna, despite its material **poverty** `{{G4432}}`, is told, "but thou art **rich**" [[Revelation 2:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of wealth and its opposite:
* `{{G4149}}` **ploûtos** (riches): This is the root noun from which **ploúsios** is derived. It is used to describe the "uncertain **riches**" of this world that one should not trust in [[1 Timothy 6:17]].
* `{{G4147}}` **ploutéō** (to be... wealthy): This verb form describes the state or action of being rich. Christ, though he was **rich** `{{G4145}}`, **became poor** `{{G4433}}` so that believers might **be rich** [[2 Corinthians 8:9]].
* `{{G4146}}` **plousíōs** (copiously): The adverbial form meaning "abundantly." It describes how the living God gives us all things **richly** to enjoy [[1 Timothy 6:17]].
* `{{G4434}}` **ptōchós** (beggar... poor): This term is the direct antonym of **ploúsios** and is often used in contrast. God chose the **poor** of this world to be **rich** in faith and **heirs** `{{G2818}}` of the kingdom [[James 2:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4145}}` is significant, often serving as a spiritual caution.
* **The Danger of Materialism:** Scripture frequently uses **ploúsios** to warn against the spiritual pitfalls of wealth. Jesus teaches that it is hard for a **rich man** to enter the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of heaven [[Matthew 19:23]] and pronounces woe on the **rich** because they have received their **consolation** `{{G3874}}` [[Luke 6:24]].
* **Spiritual vs. Worldly Wealth:** The term draws a sharp distinction between a person's material and spiritual condition. The church at Laodicea claimed, "I am **rich**," but was spiritually **wretched** `{{G5005}}` and **poor** `{{G4434}}` [[Revelation 3:17]]. Conversely, believers who are materially **poor** can be spiritually **rich** in faith [[James 2:5]].
* **The Source of True Riches:** The ultimate source of abundance is God himself. He is **rich** in **mercy** `{{G1656}}` [[Ephesians 2:4]], and through Christ's **poverty** `{{G4432}}`, believers are made **rich** [[2 Corinthians 8:9]], pointing to a spiritual inheritance rather than earthly fortune.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** is a multifaceted word that extends beyond a simple definition of material wealth. It is a key element in parables and direct teachings that caution against the love of money and a false sense of security. The word forces a distinction between the fleeting value of earthly possessions and the eternal value of being **rich** toward God, illustrating that true wealth is measured by faith and one's relationship with the Creator.
TRV