from καυχάομαι; boasting (properly, the act; by implication, the object), in a good or a bad sense:--boasting, whereof I may glory, glorying, rejoicing.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun καύχησις (G2746), transliterated as *kaúchēsis*, is derived from the verb καυχάομαι (`{{G2744}}`), meaning "to boast, glory, exult." At its core, καύχησις signifies the "act of boasting" or "glorying." This term possesses a crucial semantic range, encompassing both a negative and a positive connotation, depending on the object and motivation of the boasting. In its negative sense, it refers to arrogant self-exaltation, pride, or a vain display of human achievements, wisdom, or strength. Conversely, in its positive sense, it denotes a legitimate rejoicing, exultation, or glorying that is directed towards God, His works, His grace, or the spiritual progress of others. It can also, by implication, refer to the "object" or "ground" of one's boasting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term καύχησις appears predominantly in the Pauline epistles, highlighting a significant theological concept for the Apostle.
* **Negative Boasting:** Paul frequently uses καύχησις to condemn human-centered pride and self-exaltation. In [[1 Corinthians 1:29]], he declares that God chose the weak and foolish "so that no human being might boast in the presence of God." Similarly, [[1 Corinthians 3:21]] warns against boasting in men. This type of boasting is excluded by the principle of faith ([[Romans 3:27]]), as it would negate the necessity of God's grace. [[2 Corinthians 11:17]] speaks of "boasting" that is not according to the Lord but "as a fool." [[James 4:16]] further condemns "evil boastings," linking them to arrogance and pride.
* **Positive Boasting (Glorying in the Lord):** In stark contrast, Paul champions a legitimate, God-centered form of καύχησις. The foundational principle is articulated in [[1 Corinthians 1:31]] (quoting [[Jeremiah 9:24]]): "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord." This is the only true and righteous form of glorying. Believers are encouraged to "boast in hope of the glory of God" ([[Romans 5:2]]) and even "boast in our tribulations" ([[Romans 5:3]]) because suffering produces endurance and character. The ultimate object of Paul's positive καύχησις is the cross of Christ ([[Galatians 6:14]]), through which the world is crucified to him and he to the world. Paul also legitimately "boasts" in his converts as his "glory" or "joy," recognizing them as the fruit of God's work through him (e.g., [[1 Thessalonians 2:19]], [[2 Corinthians 7:4]], [[2 Corinthians 8:24]]). Paradoxically, Paul even "boasts" in his weaknesses and sufferings for Christ's sake ([[2 Corinthians 11:30]], [[2 Corinthians 12:5]], [[2 Corinthians 12:9]]), understanding that God's power is made perfect in human frailty, thus ensuring that all glory redounds to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Verbal Root:** The direct verbal root is καυχάομαι (`{{G2744}}`), "to boast, glory, exult." Understanding the verb's usage is essential for grasping the noun's full meaning.
* **Related Noun:** καύχημα (`{{G2745}}`) is a closely related noun, often translated as "a boast," "a ground of boasting," or "an object of boasting." While καύχησις emphasizes the *act* of boasting, καύχημα tends to focus more on the *result* or the *thing* boasted about. In some contexts, their meanings overlap significantly.
* **Antonyms/Contrasts:** The concept of καύχησις in its negative sense stands in stark contrast to humility (ταπεινοφροσύνη `{{G5012}}`) and self-abasement. Its positive sense is opposed to shame (αἰσχύνη `{{G152}}`).
* **Thematic Connections:** καύχησις is deeply intertwined with theological themes such as divine grace, human sinfulness, justification by faith, the cross of Christ, the power of God in weakness, and the nature of true spiritual glory.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of καύχησις is profound, particularly in Pauline theology. It serves as a critical distinction between a human-centered worldview and a God-centered one. The consistent Pauline emphasis is on the **exclusion of human boasting** in one's own works, wisdom, or strength ([[Romans 3:27]], [[1 Corinthians 1:29]]). This exclusion is foundational to the doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone; if humans could boast in their own merits, grace would be nullified. Therefore, all legitimate καύχησις must be **"in the Lord"** ([[1 Corinthians 1:31]]). This reorients all glory and praise away from self and towards the Triune God, acknowledging Him as the sole source of righteousness, wisdom, sanctification, and redemption. The paradox of **boasting in weakness** ([[2 Corinthians 12:9]]) further underscores this, demonstrating that God's power is most clearly displayed when human strength is absent, ensuring that any glory belongs to Him alone. Ultimately, for the believer, the **cross of Christ** ([[Galatians 6:14]]) becomes the singular, scandalous, yet glorious, object of καύχησις, embodying God's wisdom and power in salvation.
### Summary
καύχησις (G2746) refers to the act of boasting or glorying, a concept with a dual nature in the New Testament. While it can denote arrogant, self-centered pride condemned by Scripture, its positive application points to a legitimate, God-honoring exultation. The Apostle Paul consistently contrasts these two forms, emphasizing that all human boasting is excluded before God, particularly concerning salvation, which is by grace through faith. Instead, believers are called to "boast in the Lord," finding their glory in God's work, His cross, His power made perfect in weakness, and the spiritual fruit borne in others. Thus, καύχησις serves as a vital theological marker, directing all true praise and confidence away from human achievement and solely towards the divine source of all blessing and redemption.
TRV