Pride
Category
Sin & Human Condition
Biblical Definition
Self-exaltation that resists God's rule, trusts in self, and looks down on others.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: גָּאוֹן; Greek: ὑπερηφανία
Transliteration
gā'ôn; hyperēphania
Literal meaning
arrogancy, exaltation; haughtiness, pride
Key Scripture(s)
Proverbs 16:18; Proverbs 8:13; Isaiah 2:11-12; Mark 7:21-23; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5
Theological Significance
Pride lies near the root of many sins because it places the self in the position of trust, honor, and control that belong to God alone. Scripture repeatedly portrays God as opposing the proud and giving grace to the humble.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Pride is not the same as thankful recognition of God's gifts. Biblically it is arrogant self-exaltation and contemptuous self-reliance.
Practical Application
The doctrine of pride calls believers to repentance, humility, teachability, and a posture of dependence on the grace of God.