### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term κολακεία (kolakeía), Strong's `{{G2850}}`, denotes "flattery," "servile compliment," or "sycophancy." Derived from a root suggesting a "fawner" or one who "smooths over," the word describes speech or behavior intended to ingratiate oneself with another, often through insincere praise, exaggerated compliments, or obsequious deference. Its core meaning emphasizes the manipulative and self-serving nature of such communication, distinguishing it sharply from genuine commendation or heartfelt appreciation. It implies a lack of integrity, where words are chosen not for their truthfulness but for their perceived effect on the recipient, typically to gain favor, influence, or material benefit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term κολακεία (kolakeía) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Thessalonians 2:5]]. In this passage, the Apostle Paul, defending the integrity and authenticity of his ministry among the Thessalonians, states: "For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness."
The context of [[1 Thessalonians 2:5]] is crucial. Paul is drawing a stark contrast between his apostolic conduct and that of false teachers or charlatans who might have sought to exploit the Thessalonian believers. By explicitly denying that he used "words of flattery," Paul underscores the purity of his motives and the sincerity of his message. He links flattery directly with "a pretext for greed," indicating that such deceptive speech is often a tool employed to mask ulterior, self-serving objectives. Paul's appeal to God as his witness further emphasizes the gravity of his assertion, affirming that his ministry was transparent, truthful, and devoid of manipulative tactics. This single occurrence powerfully condemns flattery as antithetical to genuine gospel proclamation and authentic spiritual leadership.
### Related Words & Concepts
κολακεία (kolakeía) stands in stark contrast to concepts of truthfulness (ἀλήθεια `{{G225}}`), sincerity (ἀπλοῦς `{{G573}}`, εἰλικρινεία `{{G1505}}`), and genuine love (ἀγάπη `{{G26}}`). Its negative connotations align with other terms describing deceptive or manipulative speech and behavior:
* **Deceit:** δόλος (dolos `{{G1388}}`), often referring to cunning or trickery.
* **Hypocrisy:** ὑπόκρισις (hypokrisis `{{G5272}}`), the act of pretending or feigning.
* **Covetousness/Greed:** πλεονεξία (pleonexia `{{G4124}}`), which, as seen in [[1 Thessalonians 2:5]], is often the underlying motive for flattery.
* **Cunning/Craftiness:** πανουργία (panourgia `{{G3834}}`), implying unscrupulous cleverness.
In the Old Testament, the concept of flattery is frequently condemned, often associated with "smooth" or "slipperiness" of speech. For instance, [[Proverbs 26:28]] warns, "A lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a flattering mouth works ruin." Similarly, [[Proverbs 29:5]] states, "A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet." These Hebrew parallels (e.g., חֲלָקוֹת *chalaqot* `{{H2514}}`, meaning "smooth things" or "flattery") reinforce the consistent biblical disapproval of speech that is not straightforward and true.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κολακεία (kolakeía) lies in its opposition to the divine attributes of truth, integrity, and selfless love.
1. **Undermining Truth:** Flattery inherently distorts truth, presenting an inflated or false reality to please the listener. For a faith rooted in divine revelation and truth, such deception is anathema. God is truth, and His people are called to walk in truth ([[John 14:6]]; [[Ephesians 4:25]]).
2. **Selfish Motivation:** As demonstrated in [[1 Thessalonians 2:5]], flattery is almost invariably driven by selfish motives—whether for personal gain, social standing, or manipulation. This stands in stark contrast to the selfless love (ἀγάπη) that characterizes God and is the foundation of Christian ethics ([[1 Corinthians 13:4-7]]).
3. **Perversion of Communication:** God designed human language for truthful communication, edification, and glorification of His name. Flattery perverts this divine gift, turning it into a tool for manipulation and personal advantage, rather than for building up others or speaking the truth in love ([[Ephesians 4:15]]).
4. **Authenticity of Ministry:** For Paul, the absence of flattery was a hallmark of authentic apostolic ministry. True servants of God do not seek to please men but God ([[Galatians 1:10]]). Their message is not crafted to appeal to human desires or weaknesses but to proclaim the unvarnished truth of the Gospel, even when it is challenging. This commitment to truth, even at personal cost, underscores the divine origin and power of the message.
### Summary
κολακεία (kolakeía, `{{G2850}}`) denotes insincere, self-serving flattery designed to manipulate or gain favor. Though appearing only once in the New Testament ([[1 Thessalonians 2:5]]), its condemnation by Paul is profound. He contrasts his genuine, selfless ministry with the use of flattery, revealing it as a deceptive tactic often employed out of greed and antithetical to the truth and integrity demanded by the Gospel. Theologically, flattery undermines truth, reflects selfish motives, perverts the purpose of communication, and stands as a clear mark of inauthentic ministry, highlighting the biblical call to straightforwardness and devotion to God above pleasing humans.
TRV