ἀφιλάργυρος

not loving money, not avaricious

Definition

The adjective ἀφιλάργυρος describes a person who is 'not a lover of money' or 'free from avarice.' It signifies a positive character trait of contentment and detachment from material wealth, rather than merely the absence of greed. In its two New Testament occurrences, it is used as a key qualification for church leadership (1 Timothy 3:3) and as a general exhortation for all believers to cultivate a contented life (Hebrews 13:5). The term implies that one's security and satisfaction are found outside of financial resources.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, but in two distinct, important contexts. First, in 1 Timothy 3:3, it is listed as a non-negotiable requirement for an overseer or bishop, directly paired with being 'temperate' and 'self-controlled.' Second, in Hebrews 13:5, it is used as a command for all Christians: 'Let your character be free from the love of money' (ἀφιλάργυρος ὁ τρόπος), linking it directly to the promise of God's enduring presence as our true security.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- (meaning 'not' or 'without') combined with the adjective φιλάργυρος (G866, philargyros), which means 'loving silver' or 'money-loving.' Φιλάργυρος itself comes from φίλος (friend/lover) and ἄργυρος (silver). Thus, ἀφιλάργυρος literally means 'not a lover of silver,' with 'silver' standing for money or wealth in general.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly addresses the heart's orientation toward material possessions, a major theme in Scripture. It connects to the doctrines of contentment, stewardship, and trust in God's provision. In leadership (1 Timothy 3:3), it guards against the corruption of ministry for gain. For all believers (Hebrews 13:5), it is the practical outworking of faith in God's covenantal promise, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.' Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that Christian character is defined not just by what we avoid, but by a positive trust that displaces the love of money.

In the Greco-Roman world, the pursuit of wealth and social status was a primary cultural driver. Philosophers like the Stoics and Cynics criticized greed, but the New Testament's use of ἀφιλάργυρος, especially as a leadership requirement, presented a counter-cultural ethic for the Christian community. It framed financial integrity not just as personal virtue but as essential for credible witness and healthy church life, setting believers apart from a society often obsessed with accumulation.

ἀνεξίκακος (anexikakos, G420) — patient, enduring ill-will (a different aspect of character). πραΰς (praus, G4239) — gentle, meek (a related virtue of humility and restraint). αὐτάρκης (autarkes, G842) — content, self-sufficient (focuses on inner satisfaction rather than the absence of love for money).

Word Details

Scripture References