ὑψηλοφρονέω (hupsēlophroneō)
hupsēlophroneō
be arrogant
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hupsēlophroneō describes a posture of being "high-minded" or arrogant. It is a compound word built from hupsos ("high") and phroneō ("to think"), literally meaning to have high thoughts about oneself. In the New Testament, this term appears only once, in 1 Timothy 6:17, where Paul warns the wealthy not to be haughty.
This single usage carries significant weight for Christian ethics. The word is directed specifically at those with material resources, cautioning them against a sense of superiority or self-sufficiency that looks down on others. It serves as a direct counter to the humility required of believers, highlighting how wealth can easily distort one’s perspective and lead to pride.
Translators typically render this word as "arrogant" or "haughty," capturing the social and spiritual danger of elevated self-regard. By limiting its occurrence to this specific warning, the text emphasizes that arrogance is not just a general character flaw but a particular temptation for those in positions of power or abundance.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Paul’s warning in 1 Timothy 6:17 highlights how easily abundance can distort our perspective. The Greek word hupsēlophroneō describes a posture of being high-minded or arrogant, literally thinking highly of oneself. This is not merely a personality quirk but a spiritual danger that separates us from reliance on God.
When we possess resources, it is tempting to feel self-sufficient and superior to those with less. Yet this word reminds us that true security comes only from the living God, who richly provides for our enjoyment. Humility recognizes that every good gift is given from above.
May you find peace in knowing your worth is not tied to your wealth or status. Instead, let your heart rest in the generous provision of God, fostering a spirit of gratitude and service toward others rather than pride.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to be high-minded1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑψηλοφρονεῖν1×