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    The Snare of Wanting to Be Rich

    1 Timothy 6:9 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition."
    — 1 Timothy 6:9 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    One verse after 'godliness with contentment is great gain' (vv. 6-8), Paul warns about its opposite — the will to be rich. Verse 9 explains why contentment is so urgently commanded: the alternative drowns.

    Historical Context

    Ephesus was a wealthy commercial city, and false teachers were treating godliness as a path to financial gain (v. 5). Paul warns Timothy that the desire itself — not wealth — is the trap.

    Original Language Insights

    'Will be rich' (boulomenoi ploutein) — those who choose to pursue wealth, not those who happen to have it.

    'Drown' (buthizousin) — sink into the deep. The same word is used of boats foundering at sea.

    Theological Significance

    Money is morally neutral; the will-to-have it is not. Verse 9 names the unseen current that pulls under those who choose wealth as a goal. Verses 6-8's contentment is the lifebuoy.

    Practical Application

    Examine your wanting, not just your having. Verse 9 is not aimed at the wealthy as such, but at anyone whose heart sets out to be rich. Choose contentment before the current takes you under.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    1 Timothy 6:6-8

    "Godliness with contentment is great gain."

    The verses before — vv. 6-8 set the safe path; v. 9 names the danger of leaving it.

    Proverbs 23:4

    "Labour not to be rich."

    Solomon's parallel warning — the wisdom literature anticipates Paul.

    Prayer Response

    Father, guard my heart from the will-to-be-rich. Make contentment my gain. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is it sinful to be wealthy?

    No — Scripture features faithful wealthy believers (Abraham, Joseph of Arimathea). Verse 9 targets the desire-to-be-rich, which is a heart-orientation, not a bank balance.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying 1 Timothy 6 verse by verse:

    Before · 1 Timothy 6:6-8Exact verse

    But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

    Theme: Contentment

    After · 1 Timothy 6:10Exact verse

    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.

    Theme: The Love of Money: Root of All Evil

    Nearest commentary in 1 Timothy

    Earlier · 5 ch back · 1 Timothy 1:15Nearest chapter

    This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

    Theme: Salvation & Grace

    Earlier · 4 ch back · 1 Timothy 2:1-2Nearest chapter

    I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

    Theme: Prayer for Leaders

    Earlier · 2 ch back · 1 Timothy 4:12Nearest chapter

    Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

    Theme: Leadership

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    Read 1 Timothy 6 (full)Nearest commentary: 1 Timothy 6:10
    Read 1 Timothy 7No commentary yet
    Previous commentary: 1 Timothy 6:6-8Next commentary: 1 Timothy 6:10

    Related Commentaries

    1 Timothy 6:6-8 Commentary

    "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this w…"

    Contentment

    1 Timothy 4:12 Commentary

    "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, …"

    Leadership

    1 Timothy 2:1-2 Commentary

    "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, a…"

    Prayer for Leaders

    1 Timothy 1:15 Commentary

    "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came…"

    Salvation & Grace

    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    1 Timothy 6:12 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."

    1 Timothy 4:12 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

    1 Timothy 4:12 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

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