### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sḗs**, represented by `{{G4597}}`, is defined as **a moth**. Though it appears only **3 times** across 3 unique verses, it serves as a potent symbol for the decay and destruction of worldly possessions. The word is apparently of Hebrew origin (סָס).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{G4597}}` is consistently used to illustrate the foolishness of storing up earthly wealth. In Matthew's Gospel, the **moth** is paired with "rust" `{{G1035}}` as an agent that will "corrupt" `{{G853}}` treasures laid up on earth [[Matthew 6:19]]. This is immediately contrasted with treasures in heaven, which are secure from the destructive power of the **moth** [[Matthew 6:20]]. Luke presents a similar teaching, warning that earthly bags "wax old" and heavenly treasure is safe from thieves and the corrupting influence of the **moth** [[Luke 12:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help build the concept of worldly treasure and its vulnerability:
* `{{G2344}}` **thēsaurós** (a deposit, i.e. wealth (literally or figuratively):--treasure): This is the object that the moth destroys. It represents the earthly possessions that are subject to corruption and loss [[Matthew 6:19]].
* `{{G1035}}` **brōsis** (eating (literally or figuratively); by extension (concretely) food (literally or figuratively):--eating, food, meat): Translated as "rust" in Matthew, this term is paired with moth to describe the corrupting and consuming nature of earthly decay [[Matthew 6:19]].
* `{{G853}}` **aphanízō** (to render unapparent, i.e. (actively) consume (becloud), or (passively) disappear (be destroyed):-- corrupt, disfigure, perish, vanish away): This verb describes the action of the moth in Matthew, highlighting how it causes earthly things to disappear or be destroyed [[Matthew 6:19]].
* `{{G1311}}` **diaphtheírō** (to rot thoroughly, i.e. (by implication) to ruin (passively, decay utterly, figuratively, pervert):--corrupt, destroy, perish): This is the verb used in Luke to describe the moth's destructive effect, emphasizing a thorough ruin or decay [[Luke 12:33]].
* `{{G2812}}` **kléptēs** (a stealer (literally or figuratively):--thief): The thief is presented as a parallel threat to the moth, representing destruction by human action as opposed to natural decay [[Matthew 6:19-20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4597}}` is centered on the nature of value and permanence.
* **The Transience of Material Wealth:** The moth serves as a powerful illustration of the temporary and corruptible nature of all earthly treasures. It is a symbol of the inevitable decay that all material things face ([[Matthew 6:19]], [[Luke 12:33]]).
* **A Call to Heavenly Focus:** The threat of the moth is used to direct believers toward a different kind of investment. The command is to "lay up" `{{G2343}}` treasures in heaven, where such destructive forces do not exist [[Matthew 6:20]].
* **Comprehensive Vulnerability:** By appearing alongside "rust" `{{G1035}}` and "thieves" `{{G2812}}`, the moth helps paint a complete picture of the insecurity of earthly possessions, which are vulnerable to both natural processes and human malice.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4597}}` **sḗs** is more than a simple reference to an insect. It is a key element in a biblical metaphor about value and eternity. Through its role as a destructive agent, the moth serves as a constant reminder of the fragility of worldly goods and powerfully underscores the wisdom of investing in the imperishable treasures of heaven.
TRV