### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aphilárgyros**, represented by `{{G866}}`, defines a character that is **unavaricious**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Formed from a negative particle combined with the word for love of money, its definition is literally **without covetousness** or **not greedy of filthy lucre**, pointing to a disposition free from the desire for wealth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G866}}` is presented as a crucial aspect of a believer's conduct. The book of Hebrews commands that one's **conversation**, or entire manner of life, be **without covetousness** [[Hebrews 13:5]]. It is also listed as a non-negotiable requirement for church leaders in 1 Timothy, who must be **not covetous** [[1 Timothy 3:3]]. In this context, it appears as part of a list of necessary virtues, contrasted with negative traits like being a brawler or greedy.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of `{{G866}}`:
* `{{G5158}}` **trópos** (deportment or character): This describes the **conversation** or manner of life that is to be free from covetousness [[Hebrews 13:5]].
* `{{G714}}` **arkéō** (be content, be sufficient): Used immediately after `{{G866}}` in Hebrews, this word presents the positive counterpart, calling believers to **be content** with what they have [[Hebrews 13:5]].
* `{{G146}}` **aischrokerdḗs** (greedy of filthy lucre): This describes the opposite character trait. In the list of qualifications for leaders, being **not covetous** `{{G866}}` is set against the disqualification of being **greedy of filthy lucre** [[1 Timothy 3:3]].
* `{{G1933}}` **epieikḗs** (gentle, moderation, patient): This quality is listed alongside `{{G866}}` for leaders, showing that freedom from covetousness is part of a broader character that is **patient** and peaceable [[1 Timothy 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G866}}` is centered on Christian character and reliance on God.
* **A Standard for Leadership:** Being **not covetous** is a key qualification for spiritual leaders, placed alongside other essential traits like being peaceable `{{G269}}` and patient `{{G1933}}`, defining a character fit for oversight [[1 Timothy 3:3]].
* **A Principle for Daily Life:** The command extends to all believers, whose entire **conversation** `{{G5158}}`, or deportment, should be marked by a freedom from the love of money [[Hebrews 13:5]].
* **Foundation in God's Faithfulness:** The instruction to be **without covetousness** is immediately justified by a call to contentment `{{G714}}`, which is rooted in God's own promise to never leave nor forsake His people [[Hebrews 13:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G866}}` signifies more than a simple absence of greed; it describes a positive characteristic of a life founded on trust in God. It serves as both a specific requirement for leadership within the church [[1 Timothy 3:3]] and a general instruction for the conduct of all believers [[Hebrews 13:5]]. By linking freedom from covetousness to contentment in God's provision, the term highlights a core tenet of faith: that security is found not in material things, but in the unwavering presence of God.
TRV