Who or what is Covetousness in the Bible?

Ancient Context: Covetousness

⚡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)

Covetousness encompasses various shades of meaning, including acquiring property dishonestly, harboring excessive desire for items one already possesses, and exhibiting an inordinate love of money. It is historically regarded as a serious moral failing that can precipitate other transgressions.

What is the meaning of Covetousness in the Bible?

Covetousness encompasses various shades of meaning, including acquiring property dishonestly, harboring excessive desire for items one already possesses, and exhibiting an inordinate love of money. It is historically regarded as a serious moral failing that can precipitate other transgressions.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding covetousness clarifies the biblical emphasis on contentment and generosity as essential virtues for maintaining right relationships with God and neighbors.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Covetousness. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.

Bible Study Reflection Prompts:

Why did the biblical author mention Covetousness in this passage?
What cultural or historical assumption does Covetousness clarify?

Source Attribution & Provenance

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.

How to Cite This Entry

          "Covetousness." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/covetousness/
        

Covetousness