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σητόβρωτος

sētóbrōtos

G4598 predicate adjective

SILEX Entry

Definition

Primarily, eaten or consumed by moths; describes something (often cloth or apparel) that has been damaged or destroyed by the action of moths. Carries the nuance of being rendered worthless or spoiled due to such decay. In extended usage, may symbolize fragility, impermanence, or susceptibility to corruption.

Semantic Range

eaten by moths, moth-eaten, consumed by moths; describing something rendered worthless or ruined by moths; figuratively, fragile or corruptible

Root / Etymology

From σής (moth) and the verbal component from βιβρώσκω (to eat, to consume). The compound literally means 'eaten by moths.'

Historical & Contextual Notes

σητόβρωτος is a rare adjective, attested in Koine Greek and the New Testament (notably Matthew 6:19-20 and Luke 12:33) but not in classical Greek. It is a descriptive compound, typical of Koine coinages, emphasizing the destructive action of moths on fabric—an ever-present risk in ancient societies, where clothing and cloth were valuable possessions. In the New Testament, its figurative use highlights the ephemeral nature of material goods in contrast to treasures with lasting value. Standard English translations often render it as 'moth-eaten' or 'consumed by moths,' accurately reflecting its primary sense, although the social and economic implications of such decay may not be fully conveyed in translation. Not to be confused with βρωτός (‘edible’), as the sense here is not suitability for eating but rather the state of having been eaten, specifically by pests.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from σής and a derivative of βιβρώσκω; moth-eaten:--motheaten.

Root Family

σητ-, βρωτ- (sētóbrōtos) — to consume, to eat, moth

Root σητ-, βρωτ- to consume, to eat, moth

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G4598-01 σητόβρωτα setobrota ADJ.P NOM N PL moth-eaten moth-eaten things moth-eaten 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G4598-01 James 5:2 σητόβρωτα setobrota ADJ.P NOM N PL moth-eaten moth-eaten things moth-eaten
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