Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context The term "hoarded" refers to the act of accumulating and storing up resources, wealth, or possessions, often in excess and with an intent to keep them for oneself. In biblical terms, hoarding is frequently associated with greed, selfishness, and a lack of trust in God's provision. The Bible addresses the concept of hoarding in various contexts, often warning against the spiritual dangers it poses. Biblical References 1. Proverbs 11:24-25 "One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." This passage highlights the paradox of generosity versus hoarding. It suggests that those who give freely and do not hoard their resources are blessed and prosper, while those who withhold and hoard may ultimately suffer loss. 2. Ecclesiastes 5:13-14 "There is a grievous evil I have seen under the sun: wealth hoarded to the harm of its owner, or wealth lost in a bad venture, so that when he has a son there is nothing to pass on." Here, the Preacher observes the futility and potential harm of hoarding wealth. The passage underscores the transient nature of material possessions and the potential for hoarded wealth to bring harm rather than security. 3. Matthew 6:19-21 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Jesus teaches against hoarding earthly treasures, emphasizing the importance of focusing on eternal, heavenly treasures. This passage encourages believers to prioritize spiritual wealth over material accumulation. 4. Luke 12:15-21 "Then He said to them, 'Watch out! Guard yourselves against every form of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.' And He told them a parable: 'The ground of a certain rich man produced an abundance. So he thought to himself, "What shall I do, since I have nowhere to store my crops?" Then he said, "This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods." And I will say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and be merry!" But God said to him, "You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?" This is how it will be for anyone who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God.'" This parable of the rich fool illustrates the folly of hoarding wealth without regard for God or others. It serves as a warning that life is uncertain, and hoarded wealth cannot secure one's future or eternal destiny. Theological Implications Hoarding is often seen as a manifestation of a lack of faith in God's provision and a focus on self-reliance. The Bible encourages believers to trust in God's ability to provide for their needs and to be generous with their resources. Hoarding can lead to spiritual stagnation, as it reflects a heart that is more concerned with earthly security than with serving God and others. Practical Application Believers are called to examine their attitudes toward wealth and possessions, ensuring that they do not fall into the trap of hoarding. Instead, they are encouraged to practice generosity, stewardship, and trust in God's provision. By doing so, they align their lives with biblical principles and demonstrate a heart that values eternal treasures over temporary, earthly gains. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Hoard.Strong's Hebrew 2630. chasan -- to be treasured up or hoarded... 2629, 2630. chasan. 2631 . to be treasured up or hoarded. Transliteration: chasan Phonetic Spelling: (khaw-san') Short Definition: hoarded. ... /hebrew/2630.htm - 6k 8104. shamar -- to keep, watch, preserve Library Manna Hoarded. Ex 16:20 The Rich Fool. First Day. Compassion. Nineteenth Day. Subjection. The Rich Fool. Rest of the Soul. 'To Him that Hath Shall be Given' Within the Veil The Conflict Between Capital and Labor. That when David had Numbered the People, they were Punished; and ... Thesaurus Hoarded (3 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Hoard. Multi-Version Concordance Hoarded (3 Occurrences). ... You have hoarded up wealth in these last days. (WEY NIV). ... /h/hoarded.htm - 7k Store (134 Occurrences) Hoard (2 Occurrences) Hoards (2 Occurrences) Covered (325 Occurrences) Evidence (41 Occurrences) Wealth (340 Occurrences) Resources How should a Christian view wealth? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christians stockpile food/supplies in preparation for a possible future disaster? | GotQuestions.org Hoarded: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hoarded (3 Occurrences)James 5:3 Ecclesiastes 5:13 Isaiah 23:18 Subtopics Related Terms |