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 6:9KJV
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1 Timothy 6:9 (KJV)

What does 1 Timothy 6:9 mean?

1 Timothy 6:9 warns that people who are determined to become rich often end up falling into temptation, traps, and many foolish and harmful desires that can ruin and destroy their lives. The verse highlights the dangers that come with making wealth the main goal, showing that it can lead to spiritual and personal downfall.

Paul is writing to Timothy, a young church leader, giving advice about how to guide others in the Christian community. In this part of the letter, Paul is especially concerned about those who are tempted to chase after riches, explaining that this pursuit can lead to serious trouble. The verse uses strong language to show that the desire for wealth is not just risky but can actually “drown” people in destruction, emphasizing the seriousness of the warning.

The Greek behind 1 Timothy 6:9

  • "will" (βούλομαι, boulomai): This word means to purpose or to determine, not just a passing wish. Paul is speaking about people who have set their hearts on becoming rich, not those who simply have wealth.
  • "snare" (παγίς, pagis): This word refers to a trap used for catching animals. Paul uses it to show that the pursuit of wealth can catch people unexpectedly, trapping them in harmful situations.
  • "drown" (βυθίζω, buthizō): This word means to sink or submerge completely. Paul uses it to paint a vivid picture of people being overwhelmed or swallowed up by the consequences of their desires.
  • "destruction" (ὄλεθρος, olethros) and "perdition" (ἀπώλεια, apōleia): Both words refer to ruin, but "olethros" often means physical or earthly ruin, while "apōleia" can suggest spiritual loss or eternal ruin. Paul is warning about both present and ultimate consequences.

Why 1 Timothy 6:9 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the problem is not wealth itself, but the strong desire and determination to be rich, which can lead to dangerous outcomes.
  • Paul’s warning connects to the wider passage, which contrasts contentment with the dangers of greed, helping readers see the value of a simple, godly life.
  • The vivid language about traps and drowning helps readers understand just how serious and consuming the pursuit of wealth can become, highlighting the need for caution and self-awareness.

Where else these words appear

“drown” Greek G1036 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 5:7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

“destruction” Greek G3639 · used in 4 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 5:5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.
  • 2 Thessalonians 1:9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;

“snare” Greek G3803 · used in 5 verses

  • Luke 21:35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.
  • Romans 11:9 And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:
  • 1 Timothy 3:7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

“foolish” Greek G453 · used in 6 verses

  • Luke 24:25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:
  • Romans 1:14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.
  • Galatians 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?