The clause may be translated, “because thou thoughtest to acquire the gift of God by money.” Simon’s attitude betrayed a fundamental misapprehension of God’s character and the gifts of the Spirit. He had yet to learn that the most precious things in life cannot be bought with money.

 Literally, “Thy silver be together with thee, for perdition.” So Peter expressed his disgust at Simon’s offer. He realized that if the man did not change he would be destroyed. But he did not regard Simon’s state as hopeless, for in v. 22 he urged him to repent and be forgiven.