Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Luxury, in the biblical context, refers to an indulgence in wealth, comfort, and extravagant living that often leads to moral and spiritual decay. The Bible frequently addresses the dangers and pitfalls associated with the pursuit of luxury, emphasizing the importance of humility, contentment, and reliance on God rather than material wealth. Old Testament References The Old Testament provides numerous examples and warnings about the dangers of luxury. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom literature often contrasts the righteous and the wicked, highlighting the fleeting nature of wealth and luxury. Proverbs 21:17 states, "He who loves pleasure will become poor; he who loves wine and oil will never be rich." This verse underscores the idea that the pursuit of luxury can lead to poverty and ruin. The prophet Amos also speaks against the luxurious lifestyles of the Israelites, condemning their complacency and indulgence while neglecting justice and righteousness. Amos 6:4-6 describes those who "lie on beds of ivory and lounge on their couches," warning that such indulgence will lead to their downfall. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles continue to address the issue of luxury and wealth. Jesus warns against storing up treasures on earth, where they are subject to decay and theft, and instead encourages storing up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). This teaching emphasizes the transient nature of earthly wealth and the eternal value of spiritual riches. The parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 illustrates the folly of hoarding wealth and living in luxury without regard for one's spiritual state. The rich man, who plans to enjoy his wealth without consideration for God, is called a fool when his life is unexpectedly required of him. The apostle Paul also addresses luxury in his epistles, urging believers to live modestly and to be content with what they have. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10, Paul warns, "Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." This passage highlights the spiritual dangers associated with the desire for wealth and luxury. Spiritual Implications The Bible consistently presents luxury as a potential stumbling block to spiritual growth and a right relationship with God. The pursuit of luxury can lead to pride, self-reliance, and a neglect of one's spiritual duties. James 5:1-5 warns the rich of impending judgment, urging them to weep and wail for the miseries that are coming upon them due to their indulgent lifestyles and exploitation of others. Believers are called to live lives marked by humility, generosity, and a focus on eternal values rather than temporary pleasures. The biblical perspective on luxury encourages a heart of gratitude and contentment, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with God rather than material abundance. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A free indulgence in costly food, dress, furniture, or anything expensive which gratifies the appetites or tastes.2. (n.) Anything which pleases the senses, and is also costly, or difficult to obtain; an expensive rarity; as, silks, jewels, and rare fruits are luxuries; in some countries ice is a great luxury. 3. (n.) Lechery; lust. 4. (n.) Luxuriance; exuberance. Greek 4764. strenos -- insolent luxury ... insolent luxury. Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter Transliteration: strenos Phonetic Spelling: (stray'-nos) Short Definition: wantonness, luxury Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4764.htm - 6k 5172. truphe -- softness, daintiness, luxuriousness 4684. spatalao -- to live riotously 5171. truphao -- to live luxuriously 4763. streniao -- to run riot Strong's Hebrew 8588. taanug -- daintiness, luxury, exquisite delight... 8587, 8588. taanug. 8589 . daintiness, luxury, exquisite delight. Transliteration: taanug Phonetic Spelling: (tah-an-oog') Short Definition: charms. ... /hebrew/8588.htm - 6k 5730a. eden -- a luxury, dainty, delight 5730. eden -- a luxury, dainty, delight 6027. oneg -- daintiness, exquisite delight Library Psalm 78 Part 3 the Punishment of Luxury and Intemperance. Argument. --But, on the Ground that Liberty in Meats is Granted to ... Next He Reproaches them with their Luxury in Seeking Pleasure for ... Psalm 78:3. Third Part. The Punishment of Luxury and Intemperance ... That those who Complain of Christianity Really Desire to Live ... Of the Two Classes of Voluptuous Men, and of their Death, Falling ... Of the Corruption which had Grown Upon the Roman Republic Before ... Matt. x. 7, 8, 9 How to Use the Present Life, and the Comforts of It. Argument. --To These Things Also was Added Another Reason for ... Thesaurus Luxury (8 Occurrences)... and is also costly, or difficult to obtain; an expensive rarity; as, silks, jewels, and rare fruits are luxuries; in some countries ice is a great luxury. ... /l/luxury.htm - 9k Luxurious (9 Occurrences) Delicacy (1 Occurrence) Bedstead (1 Occurrence) Bedchamber (6 Occurrences) Bed (142 Occurrences) Linen (111 Occurrences) Revel (6 Occurrences) Revelled (2 Occurrences) Snow (25 Occurrences) Resources Does the Bible say anything that would apply to getting a massage/massage therapy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Epicureanism? What did Epicurus teach? | GotQuestions.org What is Buddhism and what do Buddhists believe? | GotQuestions.org Luxury: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Luxury (8 Occurrences)Luke 7:25 Luke 16:19 1 Timothy 5:6 James 5:5 Revelation 18:7 Revelation 18:9 Proverbs 19:10 Habakkuk 1:16 Subtopics Extravagance: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |