Mammon is one of those words that gets thrown around in Christian circles. But what does it actually mean?
The term, which is mentioned in Scripture as mammonas, comes from the Greek word μαμμωνᾶς. Its origin is Chaldean (Babylonian) and is defined as:
To personify wealth. To deify riches as a god.
Mammon is a mastering spirit. It’s associated with greed and lust, but sins like secrecy, addiction, and envy are also characteristics.
For a full list of mammon’s traits, here’s a list I’ve compiled over the years. Ask the Holy Spirit if there are any present in your life, then rebuke them:
- Mammon thrives on secrecy and half-truths by questioning your boundaries and twisting your thinking.
- Mammon invites unhealthy comparisons and factions between individuals, families, and teams.
- Mammon craves immoral and sensuous living in exchange for its own worship.
- Mammon is an incubator for addictions and conspiracies.
- Mammon is the source of entitlement, greed, and envy of others’ success.
Mammon views money as a source of worship. It’s evil and must be displaced by God’s truth.
Breaking free from mammon
God wants us to use wealth, but not be mastered by it. If you discern mammon’s presence in your life, you can break free with this renunciation prayer:
“I see you, Mammon. I do not partner with you. I send you back in Jesus’ Name. Jesus, forgive me for opening a door to secrecy, comparison, immorality, addiction, and greed. I hand this all to You and ask for Your goodness in its place. Jesus, what do You have for me in exchange?”