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φυσιόω (phusioō)

phusioō

to inflate

G5448 · Greek · New Testament · 7 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
7 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The verb phusiōō describes the act of inflating or puffing up, drawing its imagery from the bellows used to stoke a fire. In the New Testament, this physical action becomes a metaphor for spiritual arrogance. It appears primarily in Paul’s letters to Corinth and Colosse, where it characterizes an attitude that swells with pride rather than humility.

Paul uses this word to critique those who elevate themselves above others or rely on special knowledge. For instance, he warns the Corinthians not to be puffed up by their spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 8:1) and rebukes those who act as if they are already rulers without him (1 Corinthians 4:8). The term captures a self-inflation that lacks the substance of genuine love or service.

Its root connects to the idea of empty expansion, contrasting sharply with the fullness found in Christ. While the word can simply mean to blow air into something, its biblical usage consistently points to a hollow pride that separates believers from one another. Translators often render it as "puffed up" or "arrogant," preserving the vivid image of someone who has become swollen with self-importance.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The Greek word phusiōō paints a vivid picture of someone swelling with air, much like a balloon filled without substance. In the New Testament, it describes a pride that inflates the ego but leaves the spirit hollow. Paul uses this image to warn believers against letting knowledge, status, or spiritual gifts become sources of arrogance rather than humility.

When we feel superior to others, we are essentially puffed up by our own fleshly mind, disconnected from the genuine love that builds up the community. This word reminds us that true strength does not come from self-exaltation but from serving others with a humble heart. It is a call to check our motives and ensure our confidence rests in Christ alone.

Instead of seeking to be elevated above our neighbors, we are invited to find our identity in the shared grace of God. This perspective fosters unity rather than division, allowing us to support one another in faith. May we guard our hearts against empty pride and instead cultivate a spirit of gentle humility that honors God and edifies those around us.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • puffed up2×
  • you be puffed up1×
  • were puffed up1×
  • puffs up,1×
  • is puffed up,1×
  • being puffed up1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ἐφυσιώθησάν1×
  • φυσιοῦται,1×
  • φυσιοῦσθε1×
  • φυσιοῖ,1×
  • φυσιούμενος1×
  • πεφυσιωμένων1×
  • πεφυσιωμένοι1×

Key Verses

  • I Corinthians 8:1
    Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.

    This verse contrasts the hollow inflation of knowledge with the constructive power of love, showing that information alone does not build community.

  • Colossians 2:18
    Let no one rob you of your prize by self-abasement and worshiping of the angels, dwelling in the things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

    Paul explicitly links being vainly puffed up by a fleshly mind to spiritual deception and false humility, warning against self-made spirituality.

  • I Corinthians 4:6
    Now these things, brothers, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that in us you might learn not to think beyond the things which are written, that none of you be puffed up against one another.

    Here the term is used as a boundary marker, instructing believers not to think beyond what is written to avoid prideful rivalry among leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does phusiōō mean in the Bible?

The word phusiōō literally means to inflate or blow up with air. In a spiritual context, it refers to becoming arrogant or puffed up with pride, often due to knowledge or status, rather than having genuine humility.

Where does this word appear most frequently?

It appears primarily in Paul’s letters to the Corinthians and Colossians. You can find it in passages like 1 Corinthians 4:6, 1 Corinthians 8:1, and Colossians 2:18, where Paul addresses issues of pride within the early church.

How is this different from simple confidence?

While confidence can be healthy, phusiōō describes a pride that separates believers from one another and lacks love. It is an empty expansion of self-importance that does not build up the community or reflect Christ’s humility.

Every Occurrence (7 verses across 2 books)

I Corinthians 6 verses
I Corinthians 4:6

Now these things, brothers, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that in us you might…

I Corinthians 4:18

Now some are puffed up, as though I were not coming to you.

I Corinthians 4:19

But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord is willing. And I will know, not the word of those who are puffed up, but…

I Corinthians 5:2

You are arrogant, and didn’t mourn instead, that he who had done this deed might be removed from among you.

I Corinthians 8:1

Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.

I Corinthians 13:4

Love is patient and is kind. Love doesn’t envy. Love doesn’t brag, is not proud,

Colossians 1 verse