I don't know exactly what covetous is, but in my experience it is not so much desiring someone else's virtue or happiness as rejecting it, taking offense at the beauty of it.
In the quote from Marilynne Robinson's "Gilead," the speaker reflects on the concept of coveting, suggesting that it is less about a genuine desire for something belonging to another and more about a negative reaction to their qualities or successes. This perspective highlights the complexity of human emotions, where envy can stem from a place of insecurity or discomfort rather than mere longing.
The idea presented indicates that covetousness emerges from a rejection of the beauty or virtue found in others, leading to a feeling of offense rather than admiration. This recognition invites readers to examine their own feelings and attitudes toward others, prompting a deeper understanding of the human condition and interpersonal relationships.
