πλεονεξία
pleonexia
greediness
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word πλεονεξία (pleonexia) is defined as greediness. This term is rooted in the concept of excess or more than what is needed, which is reflected in its semantic domain of Creation & Nature. The word appears 10 times in the Bible, indicating its significance in various contexts. In its usage, πλεονεξία often carries a negative connotation, implying an insatiable desire for more, often at the expense of others. This greediness can manifest in different forms, such as material wealth, power, or even spiritual pursuits. The word's presence in the Bible suggests that it is a universal human struggle, one that can lead to corruption and harm to oneself and others. The frequency and varied usage of πλεονεξία in the Bible underscore its importance as a concept that requires attention and self-reflection. By examining this word, we can gain insight into the human condition and the dangers of unchecked desires, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships with others.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
10 total occurrences across the text
covetings, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, and foolishness.
Luke 12:15He said to them, “Beware! Keep yourselves from covetousness, for a man’s life doesn’t consist of the abundance of the things which he possesses.”
Romans 1:29being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, malice; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil habits, secret slanderers,
2 Corinthians 9:5I thought it necessary therefore to entreat the brothers that they would go before to you and arrange ahead of time the generous gift that you promised before, that the same might be ready as a matter of generosity, and not of greediness.
Ephesians 4:19They, having become callous, gave themselves up to lust, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
Ephesians 5:3But sexual immorality, and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be mentioned among you, as becomes saints;
Colossians 3:5Put to death therefore your members which are on the earth: sexual immorality, uncleanness, depraved passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
1 Thessalonians 2:5For neither were we at any time found using words of flattery, as you know, nor a cloak of covetousness (God is witness),
2 Peter 2:3In covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words: whose sentence now from of old doesn’t linger, and their destruction will not slumber.
2 Peter 2:14having eyes full of adultery, and who can’t cease from sin; enticing unsettled souls; having a heart trained in greed; children of cursing;