ἀφιλάγαθος (aphilagathos)
aphilagathos
hating good
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The rare adjective aphilagathos literally means "not loving good" or "hating good." Formed from the negative prefix alpha, the verb phileo ("to love"), and agathos ("good"), it describes a person whose nature is fundamentally opposed to what is virtuous. This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul’s description of the difficult times that will characterize the last days.
In 2 Timothy 3:3, Paul lists this trait among other selfish and destructive behaviors like being lovers of self and money. The term suggests more than mere indifference; it implies an active rejection of moral goodness. While the exact phrase is not found in other Greek literature, its components are clear, painting a picture of someone who actively resists the good rather than simply ignoring it.
Translators typically render this as "lovers of evil" or "haters of good," capturing the strong negative force of the word. It stands in sharp contrast to those who seek righteousness, highlighting a heart that has turned away from virtue entirely. This single occurrence serves as a stark warning about the moral decay that can pervade society when love for goodness is lost.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word aphilagathos describes a heart that actively resists what is right. It goes beyond simple indifference to suggest a deep opposition to virtue. In a world where moral clarity can feel scarce, this term reminds us that goodness requires intentional love and pursuit.
Paul uses this rare word in 2 Timothy 3:3 to paint a picture of difficult times. He lists it alongside other self-centered behaviors, showing how a rejection of good often leads to broken relationships and harsh words. This warning invites us to examine our own hearts, asking if we are cultivating a genuine love for what is true and kind.
Our faith calls us to be different from the surrounding culture. By seeking God’s wisdom, we can develop a heart that delights in righteousness rather than resisting it. This shift changes how we treat others and how we respond to challenges. May you find strength in Christ to love the good He desires for you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- without love of good,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀφιλάγαθοι,1×
Key Verses
-
II Timothy 3:3
without natural affection, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, not lovers of good,
This is the only New Testament occurrence, where Paul identifies hating good as a key trait of moral decay in the last days.