Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

MATTHEW 6:19KJV
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Matthew 6:19 (KJV)

What does Matthew 6:19 mean?

Matthew 6:19 warns against storing up wealth and possessions on earth, since these things can be destroyed by moths and rust or stolen by thieves. Instead, the verse suggests that earthly treasures are temporary and insecure.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, teaching them about true priorities in life. The verse uses everyday examples—moths, rust, and thieves—to highlight how material things can easily be lost or ruined. The focus is on encouraging listeners to think about what truly lasts and where they place their trust.

The Greek behind Matthew 6:19

  • θησαυρούς (thēsaurous): This word means "treasures" or "stores of wealth." The Greek term often refers to accumulated valuables, not just money, but anything people consider precious. The use of this word draws attention to the idea of hoarding or stockpiling.
  • σεαυτοῖς (heautois): This means "for yourselves." The phrase emphasizes the personal focus of the action—gathering treasures for one’s own benefit, not for others or for God.
  • βρῶσις (brōsis): Translated as "rust," this word can mean "eating" or "consuming." In this context, it points to anything that gradually destroys or consumes valuables, not just literal rust but also decay in general.
  • διορύσσουσιν (dioryssousin): This verb means "break through," referring to digging or breaking into a house, as thieves would do. It highlights the insecurity of physical possessions, which can be lost through theft.

Why Matthew 6:19 matters

  • Matthew 6:19 helps clarify that Jesus is not simply warning against wealth itself, but against the attitude of hoarding and trusting in material things for security.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme in the Sermon on the Mount about where a person’s heart and priorities should be, setting up the next verses about treasures in heaven.
  • By using vivid, everyday dangers to possessions, the verse makes the teaching relatable and memorable, showing the practical limits of earthly wealth.