钱财乃身外之物

Money is a secondary concern" and a Biblical Perspective

The Chinese phrase "钱财乃身外之物" ( qián cái nǎi shēn wài zhī wù.) translates to "money is an external thing" or "money is a secondary concern." This ancient wisdom speaks to the idea that wealth is not a part of our true, core self. It is something we acquire and, ultimately, something we leave behind. The saying encourages a detachment from material possessions, reminding us that true value lies elsewhere—in relationships, character, and spiritual well-being.

This sentiment finds a powerful echo in the Bible, particularly in Matthew 6:19-21:

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Both the Chinese phrase and this biblical passage share a common understanding: our time and energy are best spent on things that last. The "treasures in heaven" are not literal gold, but rather the spiritual fruits of a life lived for God and others. These are the things that no earthly force can take away—a person's faith, their kindness, their love, and their legacy of good deeds. In this way, "钱财乃身外之物" and the words of Jesus offer a timeless and universal truth: while money has its use, our hearts should be set on what truly matters.