Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8700 Threats to the life of faith » 8733 envy
A desire for another's gifts, possessions, position or achievements, closely associated with jealousy.
Causes of envy
Envy is the result of human sin
Galatians 5:19-21 See also Proverbs 23:17; Matthew 15:19-20 pp Mark 7:21-23; Romans 1:29; 1 Corinthians 3:3; 1 Timothy 6:4; Titus 3:3; 1 Peter 2:1-2
Envy arises from the good fortune of others
Genesis 26:12-14; 1 Samuel 18:6-8; Psalm 73:3; Matthew 20:12-15
Love does not envy others
1 Corinthians 13:4
Envy arises from the spiritual abilities of others
Psalm 106:16-18; Acts 13:44-45 See also Numbers 11:28-30; Numbers 12:2; Numbers 16:1-3; Matthew 27:18 pp Mark 15:10; Acts 17:5; Philippians 1:15
Examples of envy
Cain envies Abel
Genesis 4:3-5
Esau envies Jacob
Genesis 27:41
Rachel envies Leah
Genesis 30:1
The brothers envy Joseph
Genesis 37:4
Results of envy
Job 5:2 See also Proverbs 14:30; Ecclesiastes 4:4; James 3:14-16
In some cases, envy can be used by God
Romans 10:19; Romans 11:11,13-14 Paul hopes that the Gentiles' response to the gospel might make Israel want its blessings as well. See also Deuteronomy 32:21
Envy forbidden
Psalm 37:1 See also Proverbs 3:31; Proverbs 24:1; Galatians 5:26
See also
5848 exaggeration 5910 motives, examples 5929 resentment against people 6133 coveting 8773 jealousy
