Spiritual pride (Christianity)

For those at the beginning of the path of self-consciousness, of spirituality, reaching a state of some satisfaction with themselves and with their work is a mark of spiritual pride. They view themselves as progressing nicely in the spirit because of their ardour and hard work in spirit exercises. They feel compelled to speak of spiritual things in front of others. Even as beginners they desire to teach rather than learn. In the centre of their being they condemn those who do not have the devotion they themselves want. The spiritual guides of these people may disapprove of this behaviour and say so, but the pride-filled beginner dismisses this as being misunderstood. They only desire approval and admiration and not correction. This disapproval is proof to them that their guides are really not spiritual. They seek out someone who will speak of spiritual things and praise them and avoid those who would point out their errors and lead them on a fruitful path. They are ashamed to acknowledge their faults openly for fear they will lose the esteem of others. They loath praising others and long for praise themselves. This is quite the opposite of spiritual humility.

The devil want this state for all those who choose the path of the spirit. The devil wants this state to grow so that the development of the individual is arrested and he may turn to vices. The pilgrim of the spirit may turn away from concern for others and become totally concerned with themselves, so that when ever the chance comes up they deplore and belittle others directly and indirectly. Any suggestion that this individual may need assistance is rejected out of hand. This unassailable position of spiritual self-righteousness can lead the person commit the most arrogant and evil of acts.

This is an imperfection of beginners in the Dark Night by St John of the Cross.