### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **alazoneía**, represented by `{{G212}}`, describes **braggadocio** or **pride**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term derives from ἀλαζών and implies a boastful self-confidence that is empty or arrogant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{G212}}` establish its negative spiritual context. In [[1 John 2:16]], it is listed as the "**pride** of life," alongside "the lust of the flesh" and "the lust of the eyes," as things that are "of the world" and not from the Father. Similarly, [[James 4:16]] condemns rejoicing in one's "**boastings**," stating that "all such rejoicing is evil."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this pride:
* `{{G2744}}` **kaucháomai** (to vaunt): This word for rejoicing or glorying is used in [[James 4:16]] to describe the specific action taken in one's **boastings** `{{G212}}`, which is deemed evil.
* `{{G2746}}` **kaúchēsis** (boasting): In the same verse, this term specifies that the "rejoicing" derived from `{{G212}}` is inherently evil (`ponērós`) [[James 4:16]].
* `{{G1939}}` **epithymía** (a longing): This word for lust is presented alongside the "pride of life" as a desire that originates from the world, not from God [[1 John 2:16]].
* `{{G979}}` **bíos** (life, i.e. the present state of existence): This term is modified by `{{G212}}` in the phrase "the pride of **life**," indicating that the boastfulness is tied to one's worldly existence and means of livelihood [[1 John 2:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G212}}` is significant despite its infrequent use. It defines a specific type of sin rooted in self-exaltation.
* **Source of Pride:** The "pride of life" is explicitly sourced from "the world" and is set in opposition to the Father, marking it as fundamentally ungodly [[1 John 2:16]].
* **Inherently Evil:** `{{G212}}` is not a neutral form of confidence. Any joy or boasting (`kaúchēsis`) associated with it is classified as **evil** (`ponērós`), leaving no room for a positive interpretation [[James 4:16]].
* **Triad of Worldliness:** It is part of a trio of worldly failings—lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—that characterize a life separate from God [[1 John 2:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G212}}` is a term for an arrogant and worldly pride. It is not merely about being proud but about a self-confidence rooted in worldly things and standing in direct opposition to the Father. Its scriptural context in both 1 John and James frames it as an inherently evil characteristic, tightly bound to sinful lusts and a worldview that rejects God's authority.
TRV