καύχημα (kauchēma)
kauchēma
pride
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun kauchēma refers to the specific object or reason for one’s pride, rather than the act of boasting itself. While the related verb describes the action of glorying, this term identifies the "ground" or "matter" on which that confidence rests. It appears frequently in Paul’s letters, such as when he speaks of the Philippian believers themselves as his joy and crown (Philippians 1:26).
This distinction clarifies why Paul can claim to have no kauchēma of his own labor in Corinth (2 Corinthians 10:13) while simultaneously rejoicing in the faith of others. The word shifts focus from self-promotion to the tangible results of ministry or the character of the community. Translators often render it as "boast" or "glory," but the Greek emphasizes the substantive basis for that pride.
Etymologically, it derives from kauchaomai, linking the abstract concept of confidence to a concrete reality. In Romans 4:2, Paul argues that Abraham had no such ground for boasting before God, highlighting that true righteousness comes by faith, not by works that could serve as a basis for human pride.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
This word points to the concrete reason for your pride or joy, not just the act of boasting. In Philippians 1:26, Paul sees the believers themselves as his 'boasting'—their faith is the tangible evidence of God’s work. This shifts our focus from self-promotion to the lives we influence and the community we serve. Your character and actions become the ground for others to rejoice in Christ.
Yet, Romans 4:2 reminds us that before God, no human work serves as a valid basis for pride. True confidence rests solely on faith, not on achievements that could earn merit. We hold fast to this hope, knowing that our ultimate joy is found in Christ alone, where every effort matters and every heart is known.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- boasting5×
- ground of boasting2×
- of boasting1×
- boasting;1×
- boast1×
- a boast1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- καύχημα8×
- καύχημά1×
- καύχημα·1×
- καυχήματος1×
Key Verses
-
Philippians 1:26
that your boasting may abound in Christ Jesus in me through my presence with you again.
Paul identifies the believers themselves as his tangible reason for pride, showing how community reflects God's grace.
-
Romans 4:2
For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not toward God.
Paul denies Abraham any substantive ground for boasting before God, establishing faith as the only valid basis for righteousness.
-
II Corinthians 9:3
But I have sent the brothers so that our boasting on your behalf may not be in vain in this respect, that, just as I said, you may be prepared,
Paul sends brothers to ensure his confidence in the Corinthians' readiness is not proven false, linking his pride to their faithful response.