ὑψηλοφρονέω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word hypsēlophronéō, represented by G5309, means to be lofty in mind, i.e. arrogant. It is derived from a compound of words meaning lofty and mind. This specific term for being highminded appears 4 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, serving as a direct command against a particular type of pride.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its biblical usage, G5309 is presented as a negative trait to be avoided. In 1 Timothy 6:17, the rich are charged not to be highminded or to place their trust in the uncertainty of riches, but rather in God. In Romans 11:20, the word appears in a warning to believers who stand by faith, urging them, "Be not highminded, but fear." In both cases, the term is used in a direct command to forbid an attitude of arrogance.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related Greek words help clarify the context and meaning of being highminded:

• G4145 ploúsios (rich): This describes the state of being wealthy, which is directly linked to the temptation to be highminded in 1 Timothy 6:17.
• G1679 elpízō (to expect or confide; trust): This is presented as the proper alternative to being highminded. Instead of trusting in riches, one is to trust in God 1 Timothy 6:17.
• G5399 phobéō (to be in awe of, i.e. revere; fear): This is given as the direct antidote to being highminded in Romans 11:20, indicating that a reverent fear is the opposite of arrogance.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G5309 is significant despite its rare use, as it highlights a specific spiritual danger.

• The Peril of Pride: The term directly warns against arrogance, whether it stems from material wealth 1 Timothy 6:17 or from a perceived spiritual standing Romans 11:20.
• Trust vs. Arrogance: Being highminded is associated with placing trust in worldly things like "uncertain riches". Scripture commands a shift in confidence from self or possessions to the "living God" 1 Timothy 6:17.
• Fear as Humility: The command to "fear" rather than be highminded establishes a key theological principle: true spiritual stability comes from a reverent awe of God, not from self-elevation Romans 11:20.

Summary

In summary, G5309 is a concise and potent term for an arrogant or lofty mindset. It is used exclusively as a prohibition, warning believers against the pride that can arise from either wealth or spiritual position. The command not to be highminded serves to redirect one's confidence away from uncertain, worldly things and toward a proper trust and reverent fear of God.