Meaning
An excessive sense of one’s own importance, ability, status, or worth; undue self-confidence or self-importance.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses pride for an attitude of self-exaltation, arrogance, or excessive confidence in oneself. It is contrasted with humility and is repeatedly associated with haughtiness, boasting, and reliance on one’s own strength or position.
The Bible applies the term to individuals, rulers, and peoples. It also describes pride as something that can precede downfall, as expressed in the proverb that pride goes before destruction.
Key References
- 1 Samuel 15:23 — Saul’s rebellion and stubbornness are described in connection with his rejection of the LORD’s word.
- Proverbs 8:13 — Pride and arrogancy are contrasted with the fear of the LORD.
- Proverbs 16:5 — The proud in heart are described in relation to the LORD.
- Proverbs 16:18 — Pride is associated with destruction and an haughty spirit with a fall.
- Proverbs 21:4 — A proud heart is described alongside a high look.
- Proverbs 29:23 — Pride is contrasted with humility.
- Daniel 4:37 — Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God’s ability to abase those who walk in pride.
- Mark 7:22 — Pride is listed among the things that defile a person.
- 1 John 2:16 — The pride of life is distinguished from the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes.
Related Terms
- Humility
- Arrogance
- Haughtiness
- Boasting
- Stubbornness