I Timothy 6:10

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“For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

Often quoted, does this verse teach that money is the root of all evil?

This is not what the verse says! A closer look exposes two crucial, overlooked points: (1) It is the “love of” money that is (2) “a” root of all evil, not the root of all evil. The Greek article for “the root” is more properly translated “a root.” (Remember, the Greek language has no definite article.) To love money is both covetous and idolatrous. This is why Paul instructs that having it brings great potential for many “sorrows,” if one is not very careful.

Therefore, God is not condemning the right and proper use of money, but rather the love of it.