A noun meaning the means or process of gaining, acquiring, or making money—profit, financial advantage. Paul uses it in warning about false teachers who view 'godliness as a means of gain' (1 Tim 6:5)—treating piety as a money-making scheme. He then pivots: 'godliness with contentment is great gain' (1 Tim 6:6)—true spiritual profit comes not from monetizing religion but from contented trust in God. The contrast is sharp: those who see ministry as a business versus those who see godliness itself, with contentment, as the real wealth. Classical usage included earning a living or procuring resources.