Boasting
In the Bible, boasting is often viewed negatively, associated with pride and self-exaltation. The Hebrew term for boasting (הָלַל, halal) can imply a sense of glory or praise, but when used in the context of human behavior, it typically denotes an overemphasis on one's own achievements or attributes. Proverbs 27:2 advises, "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips," highlighting the folly of self-promotion. Similarly, in the New Testament, James 4:16 warns against boasting about future plans, stating, "As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil," emphasizing that such attitudes stem from a lack of humility and reliance on God.Conversely, the Bible acknowledges a kind of boasting that is appropriate when it pertains to the Lord. In Jeremiah 9:23-24, God instructs, "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches; but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me." Here, boasting is reframed as a declaration of one's relationship with God, shifting the focus from self to divine knowledge and righteousness. Thus, biblical boasting is characterized by a clear distinction between self-aggrandizement and celebrating one's connection to God.