### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **physióō**, represented by `{{G5448}}`, means to inflate or blow up. Figuratively, it describes being made proud or haughty. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily as a caution against spiritual arrogance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5448}}` is used to diagnose a state of spiritual pride, particularly within the Corinthian church. Paul states that mere knowledge has a tendency to **puff up** the believer, while love is what truly builds up [[1 Corinthians 8:1]]. This state is the direct opposite of charity, which is not **puffed up** [[1 Corinthians 13:4]]. The term is also used to rebuke the Corinthians for being **puffed up** with arrogance over their internal divisions [[1 Corinthians 4:6]] and for their tolerance of grievous sin in their midst instead of mourning [[1 Corinthians 5:2]]. Paul contrasts this empty pride with true spiritual substance, declaring he will test not the "speech of them which are **puffed up**, but the power" [[1 Corinthians 4:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of being "puffed up":
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love, i.e. affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast): This is presented as the direct antidote to being puffed up. While knowledge leads to arrogance, **charity** edifies [[1 Corinthians 8:1]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)): This is contrasted with the hollow state of being puffed up. Paul is interested in demonstrating true spiritual **power**, not the empty words of the arrogant [[1 Corinthians 4:19]].
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e. (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or as the symbol of what is external, or as the means of kindred), or (by implication) human nature (with its frailties (physically or morally) and passions), or (specially), a human being (as such)): The source of this pride is identified as the **fleshly** mind, which is puffed up in vain [[Colossians 2:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5448}}` serves as a consistent warning against pride.
* **Knowledge vs. Love:** The word highlights a critical danger in the Christian life: that knowledge, when divorced from **charity** `{{G26}}`, can lead to arrogance rather than spiritual maturity [[1 Corinthians 8:1]].
* **Arrogance and Division:** Being **puffed up** is a root cause of division and factionalism within the church, as believers align themselves with human leaders and think of themselves more highly than they should [[1 Corinthians 4:6]].
* **Hollow Speech vs. True Power:** The state of being **puffed up** is characterized by boastful speech but lacks the genuine **power** `{{G1411}}` of God. This challenges believers to pursue spiritual substance over superficial appearances [[1 Corinthians 4:19]].
* **Fruit of a Fleshly Mind:** Scripture diagnoses this inflated pride as a product of the **fleshly** `{{G4561}}` mind, connected to those who intrude into unseen spiritual matters with unearned confidence [[Colossians 2:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5448}}` **physióō** is more than just pride; it is a spiritual condition of being inflated and hollow. It stands in direct opposition to core Christian virtues like love, humility, and grief over sin. The word serves as a stark reminder that true spiritual life is measured not by intellectual knowledge or confident speech, but by a love that builds up and the authentic power of God.
TRV