The Greek word phílautos, represented by G5367, is defined as being fond of self, or selfish. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term is derived from φίλος and αὐτός and its singular usage highlights a specific and significant character flaw.
The sole appearance of G5367 is in a list of negative traits describing the perilous times of the last days. In this context, it is the very first characteristic mentioned: "For men shall be lovers of their own selves" 2 Timothy 3:2. This prominent placement suggests that this form of selfishness is a foundational sin that gives rise to the other negative qualities that follow in the passage, such as being covetous, proud, and unholy.
Several related words found in the same verse give a fuller picture of the character of a lover of own self:
- G5366 philárgyros (fond of silver (money), i.e. avaricious): This word for covetous immediately follows G5367, suggesting a direct link between self-love and the love of money 2 Timothy 3:2. It is also used to describe the Pharisees Luke 16:14.
- G5244 hyperḗphanos (appearing above others (conspicuous), i.e. (figuratively) haughty): This term for the proud is part of the same list 2 Timothy 3:2. Scripture notes elsewhere that God resists the proud James 4:6.
- G545 apeithḗs (unpersuadable, i.e. contumacious): The selfishness of G5367 manifests as being disobedient to parents 2 Timothy 3:2. This same term is also used to describe those who are foolish and serve various lusts Titus 3:3.
The theological weight of G5367 is significant despite its single use. It serves as a key indicator of a fallen state.
- Root of Vice: Its position at the head of the list in 2 Timothy 3:2 implies that being a lover of own self is the source from which other sins spring, including being covetous, proud, and blasphemers.
- Rejection of Authority: This self-love is directly connected to being disobedient to parents 2 Timothy 3:2, which signifies a rejection of established, God-given order.
- Spiritual Decay: The list that begins with G5367 culminates in being unthankful and unholy 2 Timothy 3:2, showing that a focus on self leads to a complete disregard for God.
In summary, G5367 phílautos is a concise but powerful term. Its single appearance in scripture at the beginning of a prophetic list of vices in 2 Timothy 3:2 establishes it as a foundational trait of a sinful character. It describes a self-centeredness that is the root of pride, greed, disobedience, and unholiness, serving as a critical warning about the nature of a heart turned inward and away from God and others.
TRV