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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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