### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **philárgyros**, represented by `{{G5366}}`, is a term for being **covetous**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from φίλος (philos) and ἄργυρος (argyros), the word's base definition is being fond of silver or money, indicating an avaricious nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5366}}` is used to describe a specific heart condition. In [[Luke 16:14]], the Pharisees are identified as **covetous**, and this attribute is directly linked to their decision to deride Jesus after hearing His teachings. The word also appears in a prophetic context in [[2 Timothy 3:2]], where being **covetous** is listed among a series of negative traits that will characterize people in the last days.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from [[2 Timothy 3:2]] provide a broader context for the character associated with covetousness:
* `{{G5367}}` **phílautos** (lover of own self): This term for being selfish immediately precedes **philárgyros**, establishing a direct connection between an improper love of self and a love of money [[2 Timothy 3:2]].
* `{{G5244}}` **hyperḗphanos** (proud): This word, meaning haughty or appearing above others, is also part of the same list, linking covetousness to arrogance and a prideful disposition [[2 Timothy 3:2]].
* `{{G462}}` **anósios** (unholy): Defined as wicked, this term frames covetousness as a trait that is fundamentally at odds with holiness and godliness [[2 Timothy 3:2]].
* `{{G884}}` **acháristos** (unthankful): This word for being thankless appears alongside **philárgyros**, suggesting that a love for money coexists with a lack of gratitude [[2 Timothy 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5366}}` lies in its exposure of a corrupt inner motivation.
* **A Root of Opposition:** The term is used to explain why the Pharisees rejected Jesus's message, showing that a heart devoted to wealth can lead to hostility toward divine truth [[Luke 16:14]].
* **A Sign of Godlessness:** Its inclusion in [[2 Timothy 3:2]] places the love of money alongside traits like being a blasphemer, disobedient, and unholy, identifying it as a key characteristic of a godless society.
* **Misplaced Affection:** The word's components ("fond of silver") highlight a transfer of affection from God to material wealth, which stands as a form of idolatry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5366}}` is more than a simple descriptor for greed. It is a potent term that identifies a specific type of covetousness—a love of money—as a significant spiritual and moral failing. Though used sparingly, its appearances in scripture serve to characterize both the religious elite who opposed Jesus and the ungodly nature of humanity in the end times, demonstrating how this one disposition is connected to a wider web of pride, selfishness, and unholiness.
TRV