περπερεύομαι

I boast

Definition

The verb περπερεύομαι means to boast or vaunt oneself in a self-centered, arrogant, and empty manner. It describes a kind of bragging that is not grounded in reality or truth, but is rather an expression of vanity and self-exaltation. In its sole New Testament occurrence in 1 Corinthians 13:4, it is used to define what love is *not*: 'Love does not boast (περπερεύεται), it is not proud.' This highlights the word's negative connotation of hollow, prideful self-promotion.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 13:4, within Paul's famous description of love (agape). Here, it functions as a key negative characteristic that true, divine love lacks. The context is Paul's correction of the Corinthian church's divisive and prideful behavior, contrasting their self-focused boasting with the self-giving nature of love.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek adjective πέρπερος (perperos), meaning 'vainglorious' or 'braggart.' It is an onomatopoeic or expressive word, likely imitating the sound or pompous manner of a boaster. The root conveys the idea of empty, ostentatious display.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it sharply defines a quality antithetical to Christian love (agape). Understanding this specific Greek term enriches the reading of 1 Corinthians 13 by showing that Paul is not condemning all forms of speaking well of oneself or one's accomplishments (for which other Greek words like καυχάομαι, kauchaomai, G2744, are sometimes used), but specifically the hollow, arrogant boasting born of pride. It underscores that genuine, God-like love is fundamentally humble and others-focused, not self-aggrandizing.

In the Greco-Roman world, public boasting and self-promotion were common tools for gaining honor and status. Philosophers and moralists often criticized empty boasting (alazoneia) as a vice. Paul's use of this specific, vivid term would have resonated with his audience, contrasting the cultural pursuit of self-glory with the counter-cultural virtue of Christian love that seeks the good of others.

καυχάομαι (kauchaomai, G2744) — a broader term for boasting or glorying, which can be positive (e.g., boasting in the Lord) or negative. ἀλαζονεία (alazoneia, G212) — the noun for arrogant, empty boasting or pretension, focusing more on the character trait.

Word Details

Scripture References