Avarice(cupidity)
Summary
An excessive and sinful love of riches that makes the acquisition of wealth an end in itself rather than a means to godly living.
☩Definition and Nature
Avarice, derived from the Latin meaning 'to crave,' is the inordinate love for riches. Its special malice lies in making the getting and keeping of money a purpose in itself rather than recognizing these things as instruments for conducting a rational and harmonious life. It is called a capital vice because many other sins are committed in pursuit of its object.
☩Consequences
Gregory the Great enumerated seven sins that spring from avarice: treasons, frauds, lies, perjuries, restlessness, violence, and hardness of heart. The root cause of this vice is unbelief—'because men believe not Providence, therefore do they so greedily scrape and hoard.' Avarice grows by indulgence and is often strongest in the aged, who can least enjoy riches yet most desire them.
☩Moral Evaluation
Avarice is dangerous because it often cloaks itself as a virtue, masquerading as prudent provision for the future. In so far as it incites injustice in acquiring and retaining wealth, it is frequently a grievous sin. In itself, as an excessive desire for riches, it may not always be mortal sin but remains spiritually perilous.
Related Verses8 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Avarice," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.Charles G. Herbermann et al. (ed.), "Avarice," in The Catholic Encyclopedia, vol. II (Robert Appleton Company, 1907–1912).