12 Bible Verses About Pride

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Discover the negative effects of pride and the importance of humility in this article on Bible verses about pride.

The Bible warns against arrogance and self-centeredness, emphasizing the importance of seeking forgiveness and repentance to overcome it.

Learn about relevant chapters in Proverbs, James, Luke, Isaiah, and more, which provide wisdom and guidance on avoiding the pitfalls of pride and cultivating humility.

True greatness comes from serving others and following God’s will, rather than seeking personal glory or recognition.

Bible verses about pride

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about pride:

1. Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
2. James 4:6 – “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
3. Proverbs 8:13 – “The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.”
4. Proverbs 29:23 – “A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.”
5. 1 John 2:16 – “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.”
6. Ecclesiastes 7:8 – “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.”

7. Proverbs 11:2 – “When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.”
8. Proverbs 13:10 – “Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.”
9. Proverbs 21:4 – “An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.”
10. Isaiah 2:12 – “For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low.”
11. Ezekiel 28:17 – “Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.”
12. Luke 14:11 – “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”

What does the Bible say about pride?

The Bible speaks about pride as a negative trait that can lead to downfall and separation from God.

It warns against being arrogant, boastful, and self-centered, and encourages humility and putting others before oneself.

Pride is seen as a sin that can lead to conflict and division, and the Bible emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and repentance to overcome it.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that true greatness comes from serving others and following God’s will, rather than seeking personal glory or recognition.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about pride?

1. Proverbs 16 – This chapter speaks about how pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. It also mentions how humility and fear of the Lord lead to wisdom and honor.

2. James 4 – This chapter talks about how pride leads to conflicts and quarrels among people. It also emphasizes the importance of submitting to God and resisting the devil, who tempts us with pride.

3. Luke 18 – This chapter includes the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, which contrasts the prideful attitude of the Pharisee with the humble attitude of the tax collector. It teaches us that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, while those who humble themselves will be exalted.

4. Isaiah 14 – This chapter describes the fall of the king of Babylon, who was proud and arrogant. It shows how pride can lead to downfall and destruction.

5. Proverbs 29 – This chapter mentions how a person’s pride can cause them to be stubborn and resistant to correction. It also speaks about how humility and wisdom go hand in hand.

These chapters are relevant to pride because they provide wisdom and guidance on how to avoid the pitfalls of pride and cultivate humility. They also show the consequences of prideful behavior and the benefits of humility.

Ideas and concepts related to pride that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Humility – Humility is the opposite of pride. It is the quality of being humble and modest. The Bible teaches that pride comes before a fall, and that those who exalt themselves will be humbled. Humility is important because it helps us to recognize our limitations and weaknesses, and to rely on God for strength and guidance.

2. Arrogance – Arrogance is a form of pride that involves an exaggerated sense of self-importance. The Bible warns against arrogance, and teaches that those who are arrogant will be brought low. Arrogance can lead to a lack of empathy and compassion for others, and can cause us to view ourselves as superior to others.

3. Vanity – Vanity is another form of pride that involves an excessive focus on one’s appearance or accomplishments. The Bible teaches that vanity is meaningless, and that true value comes from serving God and others. Vanity can lead to a preoccupation with superficial things, and can cause us to neglect more important aspects of our lives.

4. Boasting – Boasting is a form of pride that involves bragging about one’s accomplishments or abilities. The Bible teaches that boasting is foolish, and that true success comes from God. Boasting can lead to a lack of humility and gratitude, and can cause us to become overly focused on ourselves.

5. Selfishness – Selfishness is a form of pride that involves putting one’s own needs and desires above those of others. The Bible teaches that we should love our neighbors as ourselves, and that selfishness is contrary to this commandment. Selfishness can lead to a lack of empathy and compassion for others, and can cause us to view others as means to our own ends.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.