kibir

Kibir is an Arabic term commonly rendered in English as pride, arrogance, or hubris. Derived from the root k-b-r, it denotes an inner sense of superiority and disdain toward others. The word is used in several languages that borrow Arabic vocabulary, including Turkish (kibir) and Persian, where the meaning remains largely the same.

In Islamic theology, kibir is considered a moral vice. The Qur'an condemns arrogance and contrasts it with humility. A well-known narrative describes Iblis refusing to bow to Adam because of pride, illustrating the sin of kibir. In Islamic ethics, humility (tawadu) is valued as a virtue, while a heart dominated by kibir is said to impede faith and ethical conduct. Some scholars distinguish between legitimate self-respect and excessive pride that denies the equality or worth of others.

Linguistically, kibir is described as a disease of the heart or a moral defect. The related adjective mutakabbir describes a vain or arrogant person; al-Mutakabbir, The Supreme in Greatness, is one of the 99 names of God in Islam.

In contemporary usage, kibir appears in discussions of social behavior, leadership, and bias, where it is used to characterize condescending or elitist attitudes. The concept is also found in literature and poetry to explore themes of pride and downfall.