Lexical Summary hupsélophroneó: To be high-minded, to be proud Original Word: ὑψηλοφρονέω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance be proud, high-minded. From a compound of hupselos and phren; to be lofty in mind, i.e. Arrogant -- be highminded. see GREEK hupselos see GREEK phren HELPS Word-studies 5309 5309 hypsēlophronéō (from 5308 /hypsēlós, "high" and 5426 /phronéō, "inner perspective regulating behavior") – properly, a high, self-exalted outlook which is systemic (a problem arising from the inside out); to reek from unwarranted pride (a false sense of superiority); (figuratively) to live with self-inflated ego, viewing oneself too highly; "high-minded," i.e. given to "megalomania" (acting from a sense of self-greatness). 5309 (hypsēlophronéō) only occurs in 1 Tim 6:17. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom hupsélos and phroneó Definition to be high-minded NASB Translation conceited (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5309: ὑψηλοφρονέωὑψηλοφρονέω, ὑψηλοφρόνω; (ὑψηλόφρων, and this from ὑψηλός and φρήν); to be highminded, proud: Romans 11:20 (R G L text); 1 Timothy 6:17 (R G L Tr WH text) (Schol. ad Pindar Pythagoras 2, 91). In Greek writings μεγαλοφρόνειν is more common. Topical Lexicon Definition and scope Strong’s Greek 5309, ὑψηλοφρονεῖν, expresses the attitude of elevating oneself above others, nurturing an inner pride that distrusts dependence on God. While the verb appears only once in the Greek New Testament, it sits within a broad biblical witness that identifies pride as a root sin driving independence from the Lord. Biblical usage Paul tells Timothy to charge “those who are rich in this present age not to be arrogant” (1 Timothy 6:17). The solitary occurrence highlights a specific pastoral concern: material prosperity tempts believers to an inflated view of themselves. Although the term itself is rare, the concept pervades Scripture, resurfacing in descriptions of “haughty eyes” (Proverbs 6:17), “lofty looks” (Isaiah 2:11), and “the arrogance of wealth” (Psalm 73:6). Context of 1 Timothy 6:17 Placed within instructions about godliness and contentment, the verse warns wealthy Christians not to let possessions foster an air of superiority. Paul balances the admonition with a positive imperative: “but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” Thus, the remedy for ὑψηλοφρονεῖν is not asceticism but humility anchored in the Giver, not the gifts. Theological significance Pride resists grace. Scripture consistently portrays it as the antithesis of faith, for faith relies on Another while pride relies on self. James 4:6 repeats the Old Testament axiom, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” By using ὑψηλοφρονεῖν in relation to wealth, Paul exposes how subtle and socially respectable pride can appear, yet it still places the heart in opposition to divine favor. Relational dynamics with wealth Material abundance can create social stratification within the church, tempting the affluent to view themselves as self-made and indispensable. ὑψηλοφρονεῖν dissolves fellowship by birthing condescension. Paul’s cure—hope fixed on God and generosity toward others (1 Timothy 6:18)—restores equality at the foot of the cross. Warnings and parallel passages Romans 11:20 cautions Gentile believers, “Do not be arrogant, but stand in fear,” illustrating that spiritual privilege can breed the same proud spirit condemned in material privilege. 2 Timothy 3:4 lists “conceited” among end-time vices. Both texts echo the danger spotlighted by ὑψηλοφρονεῖν: an internal posture that eventually manifests in outward rebellion. Christological and apostolic example Jesus “humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death” (Philippians 2:8). The incarnate Son embodies the opposite of ὑψηλοφρονεῖν. Likewise, Paul models servant-leadership, working with his own hands (Acts 20:34) and calling himself “the least of the apostles” (1 Corinthians 15:9). Their examples reinforce that true greatness flows from humility, not self-exaltation. Historical insights from early church Early Christian writers such as Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch echoed Paul’s warning, urging wealthy patrons to use resources for the poor lest arrogance undermine gospel witness. By the fourth century, Chrysostom’s homilies on 1 Timothy still confronted ὑψηλοφρονεῖν among landowners in Antioch, proving the enduring relevance of Paul’s counsel. Practical ministry applications 1. Preachers should address the subtle pride that accompanies success, not merely overt boasting. Counsel for modern believers Invite the Spirit to search for traces of ὑψηλοφρονεῖν when promotions, accolades, or investments succeed. Redirect praise to the Lord who “gives you the ability to produce wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18). Practice generosity, anonymity in giving, and gratitude as disciplines that keep the soul low before God. Related Greek and Hebrew concepts Greek συναγωγή (alazoneia, boasting) and Hebrew גָּבַהּ (gabahh, to be high) share thematic overlap with ὑψηλοφρονεῖν. Together they sketch the biblical pathology of pride that resists the humility God rewards. Summary Strong’s 5309 surfaces only once yet speaks loudly: wealth or any perceived advantage must never inflate the heart. By fixing hope on God and channeling resources toward good works, believers silence ὑψηλοφρονεῖν and showcase a gospel that exalts the humble. Forms and Transliterations υψηλοφρόνει υψηλοφρονειν υψηλοφρονείν ὑψηλοφρονεῖν hypselophronein hypselophroneîn hypsēlophronein hypsēlophroneîn upselophronein upsēlophroneinLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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