Definition

Noun A worldly good is a material possession, resource, or commodity that is valued for its utility in physical, earthly, or secular life, as opposed to spiritual or eternal matters. It refers to tangible or intangible items that contribute to one's comfort, status, or pleasure in the temporal world.

Usage and Examples

The term is typically used in philosophical, religious, or ethical discussions to contrast material possessions with spiritual well-being or virtues.

• He realized that accumulating worldly goods did not bring him lasting happiness.
• The monk renounced all worldly goods to live a life of simplicity and prayer.
• In her will, she left her worldly goods to various charitable foundations.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• The term often carries a neutral or slightly negative connotation, implying that such goods are transient and less important than spiritual pursuits.
• It is frequently used in the plural form "worldly goods" to refer to the sum total of a person's material possessions.
• The concept is central to discussions about asceticism, materialism, and the perceived conflict between secular and religious values.

Variants and Related Words

• Worldly possessions: A nearly identical phrase with the same meaning.
• Material goods: A more secular synonym focusing on the physical nature of the items.
• Temporal goods: A formal synonym emphasizing the temporary, time-bound nature of these possessions (contrasted with eternal goods).

Synonyms

• Material possessions
• Earthly possessions
• Chattels (legal term for movable property)
• Secular assets

Antonyms

• Spiritual wealth
• Heavenly treasures
• Inner peace (as a non-material concept)
• Virtues (e.g., wisdom, compassion)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To renounce the world / worldly goods: To formally give up material possessions and secular life, often for religious reasons.
  • Upon taking his vows, he renounced all worldly goods.
• Worldly wealth: A phrase specifically emphasizing the monetary or high-value aspect of material possessions.
  • She was more interested in knowledge than in worldly wealth.

Noun

1. a commodity or good associated with the earthly, rather than the spiritual, existence of human beings