New Testament
1 Timothy 6:10
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For the love of money is the root of all evil. Some people, in their desire for it, have strayed from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.
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For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
What 1 Timothy 6:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a powerful truth about money and desire. It’s not money itself that is evil, but the love of it. When people prioritize wealth above all else, they can lose sight of their values and faith. This obsession can lead to poor choices and deep regrets. Many have chased after riches, only to find themselves unhappy and burdened by their decisions. The pursuit of money can create a cycle of sorrow, as it often leads to greed, envy, and discontent. Instead of bringing happiness, this love for money can cause pain and distance from what truly matters in life. It’s a reminder to focus on what enriches our lives beyond material wealth, such as relationships, purpose, and faith. By keeping our priorities straight, we can avoid the pitfalls that come with an unhealthy attachment to money and find true fulfillment in life’s deeper treasures. This verse encourages us to reflect on our values and the impact of our desires on our well-being and relationships with others.
How to apply 1 Timothy 6:10 to your life
To apply this teaching, take a moment to evaluate your relationship with money. Are you prioritizing wealth over your values and relationships? Consider setting financial goals that align with your beliefs and focus on what truly brings joy and fulfillment in your life. Remember, true wealth is found in love and purpose, not just in possessions or status. Seek balance and contentment in your life’s pursuits, and you’ll find greater peace.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Timothy Summary · 1 Timothy 6:10 Meaning
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Fuller verse explanations
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Plain Meaning
The verse says that loving money is the root of all evil — not money itself, but the craving for it. Some people chased after money so hard that they wandered away from the faith. That wandering did not leave them richer or happier; it left them full of pain, as if they had stabbed themselves through with many sorrows.
Read It in Context
The verse follows verse 9, which says people who want to be rich fall into temptation, harmful desires, and ruin. Verse 10 gives the reason why: the love of money is what drives that fall. Verse 11 then tells Timothy to run from these things.
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Timothy
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-66
- Genre
- Letter (pastoral epistle)
- Original Audience
- Timothy and the Ephesian church
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Timothy 6:10 mean?
1 Timothy 6:10 means that it is not money itself that is evil, but the love of money. This verse warns that prioritizing wealth can lead people away from their faith and cause them emotional pain.
What is the meaning of 'the love of money' in 1 Timothy 6:10?
'The love of money' in 1 Timothy 6:10 refers to an excessive desire for wealth that can overshadow other important values and lead to negative consequences in life.
How does 1 Timothy 6:10 relate to personal values?
1 Timothy 6:10 encourages individuals to reflect on their values by warning against letting the pursuit of money take precedence over relationships, purpose, and faith.
What are the consequences of loving money according to 1 Timothy 6:10?
According to 1 Timothy 6:10, loving money can lead to straying from faith and experiencing many sorrows, as it often results in greed, envy, and discontent.
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