### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **philḗdonos**, represented by `{{G5369}}`, is a compound term derived from φίλος (philos) and ἡδονή (hēdonē). Its base definition is **fond of pleasure**, or voluptuous, and it is translated as **lover of pleasure**. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5369}}` is in a list of negative traits describing the character of people in the last days. In [[2 Timothy 3:4]], individuals are described as "Traitors, heady, highminded, **lovers of pleasures** more than lovers of God". The context places the love of pleasure in direct opposition to the love of God, highlighting it as a characteristic of a spiritually corrupt state.
### Related Words & Concepts
The surrounding words in its only context help to define its meaning:
* `{{G4273}}` **prodótēs** (betrayer, traitor): This term describes one who surrenders another into an enemy's hands. It is used to describe Judas Iscariot, who "was the **traitor**" [[Luke 6:16]].
* `{{G4312}}` **propetḗs** (heady, rash): This describes someone who is precipitate or acts headlong. It is used to admonish believers "to do nothing **rashly**" [[Acts 19:36]].
* `{{G5187}}` **typhóō** (high-minded, be lifted up with pride, be proud): This word means to be inflated with self-conceit. It is used as a warning for a church leader, lest "being **lifted up with pride** he fall into the condemnation of the devil" [[1 Timothy 3:6]].
* `{{G5377}}` **philótheos** (lover of God): This term, meaning fond of God or pious, is used in [[2 Timothy 3:4]] as the direct contrast to being a lover of pleasure.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5369}}` is derived entirely from its single, impactful use.
* **Misplaced Worship:** The phrase in [[2 Timothy 3:4]], "lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God," establishes a clear hierarchy of affection. The issue is not pleasure itself, but when it is valued more than God, becoming an object of worship.
* **A Symptom of Godlessness:** Being a `{{G5369}}` is not an isolated flaw but is presented as part of a cluster of serious sins, including being traitors `{{G4273}}`, heady `{{G4312}}`, and highminded `{{G5187}}`.
* **A Defining Choice:** The term's direct opposition to `{{G5377}}`, "lover of God," frames a fundamental spiritual conflict. It highlights the choice between a life oriented toward self-gratification and a life oriented toward devotion to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5369}}` provides a concise and powerful label for a "lover of pleasure." Though used only once, its placement in [[2 Timothy 3:4]] gives it significant weight. It functions as a key descriptor of a fallen spiritual state, defined not just by its own meaning but by its stark contrast to being a `{{G5377}}`, a "lover of God." The term serves as a potent warning against prioritizing worldly indulgence over divine devotion.
TRV