Mammon
Mammon is a biblical word that refers to worldly (vs. spiritual) "wealth". It derives from the Aramaic word for wealth. In the Bible, "Memon" is referred to as a master competing with God for the soul in an almost Satanic way. According to the Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, the word "MAMMON", in general use was a personification of riches as an evil spirit or deity.[1]
Biblical References
| “ | No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. - Matthew 6:24 | ” |
Interpretations
Some see "mammon" as a human-created personification of greed for wealth or power. However, others say that this was an idol, which would be worshiped in the hopes that he would give riches to his followers.[2] Some even say that Mammon is an active, demonic spirit which is always near money.[3]
Moral Implications
Although interpretations vary, the implication is that the pursuit of riches and power, or greed, is in some way or form, evil. Whether it is a human-made concept, a false god, or an evil spirit, it is clearly described in scripture as something to avoid.
References
- ↑ Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, General Editors Chad Brand, Charles Draper, Archie England; Associate Editors Steve Bond, E. Ray Clendenen; General Editor, Holman Bible Dictionary Trent C. Butler; copyright 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, all rights reserved, p.1073a. ISBN: 978-0-8054-2836-0
- ↑ Mammon (thefreedictionary.com)
- ↑ World Changers - How to Be Free from Mammon, by Creflo Dollar (worldchangers.org)
