In exploring the biblical meaning of the word "despise," it is essential to delve into the rich tapestry of language and context found within the Scriptures. The term "despise" carries a weight that transcends mere dislike or disdain; it often signifies a deeper, more profound rejection or undervaluation of something or someone that is deemed significant or worthy. To fully appreciate its biblical connotations, we must consider its usage across both the Old and New Testaments, while also reflecting on its implications within the broader narrative of sin and redemption.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "despise" is "בָּזָה" (bāzāh). This term conveys a sense of contempt, scorn, or disdain. For instance, in 1 Samuel 2:30, God declares to Eli, the priest, "Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained." Here, "despise" reflects a willful disregard for God’s honor and commandments, illustrating a relational breach between humanity and the divine. This contempt is not merely an emotional response but a deliberate devaluation of God’s authority and holiness.
Similarly, in Proverbs 1:7, we read, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." In this context, "despise" indicates a rejection of divine wisdom, which is foundational to living a life aligned with God's will. The fool's disdain for instruction is not just ignorance but an active choice to turn away from the path of righteousness. This rejection is symptomatic of the broader human condition of sin, where individuals prioritize their own desires over God’s truth.
Moving to the New Testament, the Greek word often translated as "despise" is "καταφρονέω" (kataphroneō). This term also implies a sense of looking down upon or treating with contempt. In Matthew 6:24, Jesus uses this word to illustrate the impossibility of serving two masters, stating, "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other." Here, "despise" underscores the exclusivity of devotion required in the kingdom of God. It suggests that to truly love and serve God, one must reject the competing allegiances that vie for our hearts, such as wealth or worldly success.
Moreover, in Hebrews 12:2, we find a profound use of the term in relation to Jesus Christ: "Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." The word "scorning" (or "despising" in some translations) the shame of the cross indicates that Jesus, in his suffering, did not regard the humiliation and pain of crucifixion as something to be feared or avoided. Instead, He looked beyond it to the joy and redemption it would bring, thus transforming an instrument of shame into a symbol of victory and salvation.
The biblical concept of despising is intricately linked to the themes of sin and redemption. Sin, in its essence, is an act of despising God’s authority, love, and purpose for humanity. It is the rejection of His design and the pursuit of autonomy apart from Him. This act of despising is evident in the narrative of the Fall, where Adam and Eve chose to heed the serpent's words over God’s command, thereby despising His wisdom and provision (Genesis 3).
Yet, within this framework of sin, the narrative of redemption unfolds. Redemption is God’s response to humanity’s despising of Him. It is His relentless pursuit to restore what has been broken and to reclaim those who have turned away. In Romans 5:8, Paul writes, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Despite humanity's despising of God, He does not respond with reciprocal disdain but with sacrificial love and grace. This divine love is unfathomable, as it reaches out to those who have rejected it, offering reconciliation and new life through Christ.
The story of redemption is also a call to transformation. It invites individuals to turn from their despising ways and to embrace a life of honor and devotion to God. In Ephesians 4:22-24, Paul urges believers to "put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This transformation involves a reorientation of values and priorities, where what was once despised—God’s wisdom, love, and holiness—is now cherished and pursued.
Furthermore, the biblical understanding of despising has practical implications for the community of faith. It challenges believers to examine their attitudes towards God, His commandments, and His people. In 1 Corinthians 11:22, Paul rebukes the Corinthian church for despising the church of God by their actions during the Lord’s Supper. This admonition serves as a reminder that despising can manifest in how we treat one another, particularly within the body of Christ. It calls us to cultivate a culture of honor, respect, and love, reflecting the character of God in our relationships.
In conclusion, the biblical meaning of "despise" is deeply rooted in the dynamics of human-divine relationships. It reflects a profound rejection of what is holy, wise, and true. Yet, within the narrative of Scripture, it also serves as a backdrop against which the redemptive love of God shines brightly. While humanity has often despised God’s ways, He has not despised us. Instead, He has offered redemption through Jesus Christ, inviting us into a restored relationship marked by love, honor, and devotion. This understanding calls us to live in a manner that reflects the grace we have received, turning from our despising ways and embracing the fullness of life in Christ.
