### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hyperḗphanos**, represented by `{{G5244}}`, describes one who is **proud** or haughty. Its base definition, "appearing above others," points to a conspicuous and arrogant disposition. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently denoting an attitude that stands in direct opposition to God and the virtue of humility.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5244}}` identifies a state that elicits a direct divine response. Both James and Peter declare that "God resisteth the **proud**" ([[James 4:6]]; [[1 Peter 5:5]]), setting up a clear conflict between God and this attitude. The term is also featured in lists cataloging the traits of ungodliness. In Romans, it is associated with being "despiteful" and "boasters" [[Romans 1:30]], while in 2 Timothy, the **proud** are listed among those who will characterize the difficult last days [[2 Timothy 3:2]]. In Mary's song of praise, she celebrates that God "hath scattered the **proud** in the imagination of their hearts," presenting this as an act of divine power and justice [[Luke 1:51]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the biblical understanding of pride and its opposite, humility:
* `{{G5011}}` **tapeinós** (humble, of low degree): This is the direct antonym for **proud**. It describes the disposition of those who receive grace, in stark contrast to the **proud** whom God opposes ([[James 4:6]]; [[1 Peter 5:5]]).
* `{{G5012}}` **tapeinophrosýnē** (humility of mind): As the noun for modesty, believers are instructed to be clothed with this virtue, precisely because God resists the **proud** [[1 Peter 5:5]].
* `{{G213}}` **alazṓn** (boaster): This term for a braggart appears alongside **proud** in key lists of sins, indicating a close connection between the internal feeling of pride and the external act of boasting ([[Romans 1:30]]; [[2 Timothy 3:2]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5244}}` is significant, highlighting a fundamental posture of rebellion.
* **Divine Opposition:** The most direct theological consequence of being **proud** is that God actively "resisteth" such individuals. This frames pride not as a simple character flaw but as a state that invites divine opposition ([[James 4:6]]; [[1 Peter 5:5]]).
* **A Mark of Ungodliness:** Pride is presented as a defining characteristic of a sinful nature. It is grouped with a cluster of other sins like being "lovers of their own selves," "covetous," and "blasphemers," which are contrary to God's standard [[2 Timothy 3:2]].
* **The Opposite of Grace:** Scripture establishes a clear dichotomy where God gives grace to the humble (`tapeinós`) but opposes the **proud** (`hyperḗphanos`). Pride is therefore a barrier to receiving the unmerited favor that God offers ([[1 Peter 5:5]]; [[James 4:6]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5244}}` is more than just a label for arrogance. It defines a spiritual condition that is fundamentally at odds with God's kingdom. Scripture consistently portrays the **proud** as the objects of divine resistance and judgment, while presenting humility as the posture required to receive God's grace. The word **hyperḗphanos** serves as a solemn warning against self-exaltation and an affirmation of the humble heart that God honors.
TRV