from καυχάομαι; a boast (properly, the object; by implication, the act) in a good or a bad sense:--boasting, (whereof) to glory (of), glorying, rejoice(-ing).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **καύχημα (kaúchēma)**, represented by `{{G2745}}`, refers to a boast or the act of glorying. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the verb καυχάομαι (to boast), `{{G2745}}` carries the meaning of a boast, glorying, or rejoicing, and can be used in either a good or a bad sense depending on the context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2745}}` is used to illustrate the critical difference between proper and improper grounds for boasting. Its negative use is starkly warned against in [[1 Corinthians 5:6]], where Paul tells the Corinthian church, "Your **glorying** is not **good**." In contrast, a righteous form of **rejoicing** `{{G2745}}` is presented as a component of faith, as seen in [[Hebrews 3:6]], where believers are to hold fast to their "confidence and the **rejoicing** of the **hope**." The concept is further nuanced in [[Romans 4:2]], which states that if **Abraham** `{{G11}}` were **justified** `{{G1344}}` by **works** `{{G2041}}`, he would have a reason for **glory** `{{G2745}}`, but not before God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{G2745}}`:
* `{{G2744}}` **kaucháomai** (to vaunt): As the root verb, this word signifies the action of boasting or glorying. In [[2 Corinthians 5:12]], Paul gives believers an "occasion to **glory**" `{{G2745}}` in him to answer those who **glory** `{{G2744}}` in outward appearance rather than in the heart.
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (deed, doing, labour, work): This word is frequently contrasted with the basis for true glory. If justification were by **works**, it might provide a basis for human **glory** `{{G2745}}`, but this is explicitly denied as a means of right standing before God [[Romans 4:2]].
* `{{G2758}}` **kenóō** (to make empty, i.e. (figuratively) to abase, neutralize, falsify): This term is used to show the potential emptiness of boasting. Paul declares it would be **better** `{{G3123}}` for him to **die** `{{G599}}` than for anyone to **make** his **glorying** `{{G2745}}` **void** [[1 Corinthians 9:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2745}}` centers on the object of one's boast.
* **The Foundation of Boasting:** Scripture makes a clear distinction between glorying in human effort versus in God. Glorying derived from **works** `{{G2041}}` is invalid before God [[Romans 4:2]], while a person's **rejoicing** should be based on proving their own work before God, not in comparison to others [[Galatians 6:4]].
* **The Proper Object of Rejoicing:** The believer's **rejoicing** `{{G2745}}` is rightly placed in **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}` [[Philippians 1:26]]. It is intrinsically linked to holding firmly to the **hope** `{{G1680}}` of salvation [[Hebrews 3:6]] and serves as a mutual encouragement among believers looking toward the **day** `{{G2250}}` of the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` [[2 Corinthians 1:14]].
* **The Warning Against Vain Glory:** Misplaced **glorying** is treated as a dangerous spiritual contaminant. In [[1 Corinthians 5:6]], it is likened to **leaven** `{{G2219}}` that spreads through the whole **lump** `{{G5445}}`, showing that sinful pride can corrupt an entire community.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2745}}` is a pivotal term that distinguishes between legitimate, God-centered **rejoicing** and sinful, self-centered boasting. It underscores the biblical theme that human glory based on works is empty and even destructive. Instead, the only true and lasting **glorying** for a believer is that which finds its object in the person of **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, the work of the gospel, and the unwavering **hope** `{{G1680}}` it provides.
TRV