πλεονεκτέω

I take advantage of

Definition

πλεονεκτέω means to take advantage of someone, often in a greedy or exploitative manner. In the New Testament, it primarily conveys the idea of defrauding or wronging others, especially in financial or relational contexts, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 4:6 where it warns against taking advantage of a brother in business matters. In 2 Corinthians, it can also refer to being taken advantage of by others, such as in 2 Corinthians 7:2 where Paul appeals not to be wronged, and in 2 Corinthians 12:17-18, where he defends himself against accusations of exploiting the Corinthians. The word implies a selfish overreaching that violates ethical boundaries and harms community trust.

Biblical Usage

This verb appears five times, all in Paul's letters: twice in 2 Corinthians 2:11 and 7:2, where it describes not being outwitted or wronged by others; twice in 2 Corinthians 12:17-18, in a financial context defending against exploitation; and once in 1 Thessalonians 4:6, warning against defrauding others in business. It is used in relational and ethical exhortations, emphasizing fairness and integrity within the Christian community, particularly in matters of trust and material dealings.

Etymology

Derived from πλέον (pleon, meaning 'more') and ἔχω (echō, meaning 'to have'), πλεονεκτέω literally means 'to have more' or 'to gain an advantage.' It carries the sense of greedily seeking excess at another's expense, evolving in Koine Greek to denote exploitation or fraud. Cognates include πλεονέκτης (pleonektēs, G4123, 'a greedy person').

Semantic Range

This word highlights the biblical ethic of justice and love in relationships, condemning exploitation as contrary to God's character. It underscores the importance of integrity in Christian conduct, especially in economic and communal life, reflecting teachings against greed (e.g., Ephesians 5:3, 5) and the call to mutual edification. Understanding πλεονεκτέο enriches reading by revealing how biblical texts address systemic sins like fraud and emphasize restorative community practices.

In the Greco-Roman world, πλεονεκτέω was associated with unethical behavior in commerce and social relations, where exploiting others for personal gain was common but frowned upon in philosophical and Jewish ethical teachings. The New Testament usage aligns with this cultural understanding, urging Christians to reject such practices as part of their distinct identity, contrasting with societal norms that often prioritized personal advantage.

ἀδικέω (adikeō, G91) — to act unjustly or wrong someone, broader than financial exploitation; ἀποστερέω (apostereō, G650) — to deprive or defraud, often in a legal or material sense; πλεονέκτης (pleonektēs, G4123) — the noun form, meaning a greedy or covetous person.

Word Details

Scripture References