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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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