The concept of pride and the proud man is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often depicted as a vice that leads to downfall and separation from God. Pride is considered one of the seven deadly sins in Christian theology, and the Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on the dangers of pride.

Biblical Definition and Characteristics

Pride, in the biblical sense, is an excessive view of oneself without regard for others. It is often associated with arrogance, haughtiness, and a lack of humility. The proud man is one who elevates himself above others and, more importantly, above God. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse encapsulates the biblical view that pride leads to ruin.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, several figures exemplify the consequences of pride. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon is a notable example. In Daniel 4:30 , he boasts, "Is this not Babylon the Great, which I myself have built by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?" His pride leads to his temporary downfall, as God humbles him by driving him away from human society until he acknowledges God's sovereignty.

Another example is Pharaoh in the book of Exodus, whose pride and refusal to humble himself before God result in the plagues that devastate Egypt. Exodus 10:3 records Moses and Aaron confronting Pharaoh: "How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go, so that they may worship Me."

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to address the issue of pride, emphasizing humility as a virtue. Jesus Christ, in His teachings, often contrasts the proud with the humble. In the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14), Jesus illustrates the futility of self-righteous pride. The Pharisee, proud of his own righteousness, is not justified before God, while the humble tax collector, who acknowledges his sinfulness, is justified.

The Apostle Paul also addresses pride in his epistles. In Romans 12:3 , he advises, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." Paul emphasizes the importance of humility and the recognition of one's dependence on God's grace.

Consequences of Pride

The Bible consistently warns that pride leads to negative consequences. Proverbs 11:2 states, "When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom." Pride is often linked to disgrace, destruction, and a fall from favor. It is seen as a barrier to a relationship with God, as it fosters self-reliance and a rejection of divine authority.

James 4:6 further underscores this by stating, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" The proud man, therefore, finds himself in opposition to God, while humility opens the door to divine grace and favor.

The Call to Humility

Throughout Scripture, believers are called to reject pride and embrace humility. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Humility is presented as a key component of a righteous life, pleasing to God.

In summary, the proud man, as depicted in the Bible, is one who elevates himself above others and God, leading to his eventual downfall. The Scriptures consistently advocate for humility, warning of the dangers of pride and the blessings that come with a humble heart.